Attorney and Counselor at Law

Law Office of Jeffery S. Brown

Domestic Violence

​Domestic Violence is a serious charge. We defend clients against all allegations of domestic violence. Domestic violence is defined in the Ohio Revised Code as violence against a family or household member. This means that domestic violence can occur between husband and wife, boyfriend and girlfriend, parent and child, roommates, in-laws, or other family members. A domestic violence charge can be a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances, the injury caused, and whether the offender has prior convictions for domestic violence.

Penalties for domestic violence can be incarceration and/or fines as follows.  

1st degree misdemeanor, up to six months in jail and/or a fine up to $1000
2nd degree misdemeanor, up to 90 days in jail and/or fine up to $750
3rd degree misdemeanor, up to 60 days in jail and/or a fine up to $500
5th degree felony, six to twelve months in prison and a fine up to $2500
4th degree felony, six to eighteen months in prison and a fine up to $5000, and

3rd degree felony, nine months to three years in prison and a fine up to $10,000.

If a domestic violence offender knew the victim was pregnant, the court is required to impose a minimum sentence of six months or one year, depending on whether the incident involved harm or a threat and whether the victim’s unborn child was harmed. If the offender has been previously convicted of domestic violence the penalties are heightened. 

A domestic violence conviction can also affect your ability to own a firearm as well as your relationship with your children.  

Contact us today to learn more about Domestic Violence. 440-322-5522​​