Columbus Violent Crimes Defense Attorney

Defending Clients Throughout Central Ohio

Violent crime charges are among the most serious offenses prosecuted in Ohio. They often carry life-altering consequences—including long-term imprisonment, steep fines, and a lasting criminal record. If you’ve been charged with a violent offense anywhere in Central Ohio, it is critical to work with a criminal defense lawyer in Columbus who has experience navigating both Ohio law and local court systems.

Violent crime charges such as assault, robbery, or homicide require a legal strategy that is proactive and personalized. At Funkhouser Law, we presume all clients are innocent until proven guilty, and we fight vigorously to protect your rights at every stage of the criminal process.

What Offenses Are Considered Violent Crimes in Ohio?

According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program, violent crimes are offenses involving force or the threat of force. Ohio law reflects similar classifications and treats these cases as serious felonies under the Ohio Revised Code (ORC). Common violent crimes include:

• Murder & manslaughter (Ohio Revised Code §2903.02 & §2903.03) – Charges involving the unlawful killing of another person.
• Forcible rape (§2907.02) – Forcible sexual conduct, including without consent.
• Robbery (§2911.02) – Using force, intimidation, or threats while committing theft.
• Aggravated assault (§2903.12) – Knowingly causing serious physical harm or attempting to do so with a deadly weapon.

These offenses are aggressively prosecuted in Columbus and throughout Central Ohio, often carrying serious felony penalties.

Protecting Your Rights After a Violent Crime Charge

Ohio law provides several potential defenses to violent crime charges, including self-defense, defense of others, and lack of intent. In many cases, the outcome depends heavily on the strength of the defense strategy and the attorney's familiarity with Ohio criminal procedure.

At Funkhouser Law, we examine every detail of the case—from police conduct during arrest to the reliability of witness statements and forensic evidence. We work to dismantle the prosecution’s narrative and pursue the best possible outcome—whether through negotiation or trial.

Defense Strategies Tailored to You

At Funkhouser Law, we build your defense around the unique facts of your case. Every legal strategy is tailored to the charges you’re facing, the available evidence, and your personal circumstances. Whether you're accused of aggravated assault, robbery, or another violent offense, our team works tirelessly to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

One of the most effective defenses in Ohio violent crime cases is self-defense. Under Ohio Revised Code §2901.05, the law now places the burden on the prosecution—not the defendant—to disprove self-defense beyond a reasonable doubt. This means that if there is credible evidence that you acted in self-defense or in defense of another person, the State must prove otherwise. We use this legal standard to our advantage whenever it applies, especially in cases involving mutual combat, mistaken identity, or sudden escalations.

We also challenge the reliability of eyewitness testimony, examine forensic reports, and scrutinize how law enforcement handled your arrest. If your rights were violated at any stage—during questioning, evidence collection, or arrest—we will fight to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence.

Our goal is to create reasonable doubt in the minds of jurors or negotiate for reduced charges when appropriate. In some cases, early intervention can even result in full dismissal of charges.

Call (614) 756-2154 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation. We have offices in Columbus & Cincinnati.