​PRACTICE AREAS  - CRIMINAL LAW - TYPES OF CRIMES

Criminal Law

Understanding Types of Crimes

What is a crime?
A crime is a violation of a criminal statute. In Ohio, this can include state charges that are listed in Ohio Revised Code, or local statutes or ordinances in specific cities, towns, or villages. Each crime is unique, and you are innocent unless proven guilty. Crimes can only be charged by law enforcement officials or prosecutors. This is not a complete list of crimes. Please contact our office to discuss the specific crime you have been charged with.

Misdemeanors

Misdemeanor charges are heard in Municipal Courts. Each county has at least one Municipal Court, but there can be more than one. The court your case is in depends on where the alleged crime took place.

Common misdemeanor crimes include:
  • Assault
  • Domestic Violence
  • Theft
  • Disorderly Conduct
  • Criminal Damaging
  • Resisting Arrest
  • Obstruction
  • Most Traffic Offenses
  • and others

Felonies

Felony charges are heard in Common Pleas Courts in the county where you were charged. These cases can start in Municipal Court, but will be “Bound Over” to the Common Pleas court where it will be handled.

Common felony crimes include:
  • Murder
  • Felonious Assault
  • Strangulation
  • Enhanced Domestic Violence
  • Theft
  • Breaking and Entering
  • Vandalism
  • Weapons Under Disability
  • Improper Handling of Firearms
  • Failure to Comply
  • Possession
  • Most Sex-Related Offenses
  • and others