Legal Help for Resisting Arrest Charges in Youngstown, OH

Are you dealing with charges for resisting arrest in Youngstown? It is vital to understand exactly what these allegations mean for your future. If you are accused of obstructing a lawful arrest—whether it involves you or another person—you could be facing serious legal trouble.

To prove a “lawful arrest” occurred, the prosecution must demonstrate specific criteria beyond a reasonable doubt:

• The police officer was performing a legitimate arrest.
• You were clearly notified that you were being placed under arrest.
• Despite this knowledge, you resisted, either through active force or by interfering with the arrest process.

Keep in mind that the details often depend on the arresting officer’s perspective. Authorities must meet all these conditions to successfully prosecute the charge.

Immediate Steps to Take After an Arrest in Mahoning County, OH

If you have been booked by Mahoning County authorities for resisting arrest, here is how you should proceed:

• Stay Silent: Do not speak to the police until you have consulted with a legal professional.
• Contact Us: Reach out to the Youngstown Criminal Law Group right away to protect your rights.

Led by Sean Logue, our firm is known for defending clients against violent charges. Do not wait—call (330) 992-3036 for a comprehensive case evaluation at no cost. A skilled Youngstown criminal lawyer can help guide you through this difficult time.

Understanding Charges Under Ohio Revised Code § 2921.33

According to Ohio Revised Code § 2921.33, it is illegal to resist or interfere with a lawful arrest, whether you do so recklessly or by force. Generally, this offense is classified as a second-degree misdemeanor.

However, certain factors can increase the severity of the crime:

• If your resistance causes physical harm to a law enforcement officer, the charge upgrades to a first-degree misdemeanor.
• If the harm involves a deadly weapon, or if you brandish one during the altercation, the charge becomes a fourth-degree felony.

In this legal context, a “deadly weapon” is defined as any instrument capable of inflicting death and designed or intended for use as a weapon.

Potential Penalties for Resisting Arrest in Youngstown

If convicted of resisting arrest, you could face various sentences depending on the gravity of the charge:

• Second-Degree Misdemeanor: Punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a maximum fine of $750.
• First-Degree Misdemeanor: Punishable by up to 180 days of incarceration and/or a fine reaching $1,000.
• Fourth-Degree Felony: Punishable by up to 18 months in prison and/or a fine of $5,000.

If you are facing these severe penalties, seeking advice from a Youngstown DUI attorney who also handles criminal defense matters is a crucial step in protecting your freedom.

Select Youngstown Criminal Law Group for Your Defense

When confronting charges of Resisting Arrest in Ohio, acting quickly to secure competent legal counsel is essential. We craft robust defense strategies for clients from Springfield to Symmes, ensuring every aspect of the case is analyzed to achieve the best possible legal outcome and minimize penalties.

Youngstown DUI attorney Sean Logue will tirelessly review the details of your situation. Explore your legal options by contacting us at (330) 992-3036 or through our online form for a free, private consultation. Your current charge does not have to dictate your future. With the help of a lawyer, you can assert your rights and move toward a positive resolution.

If your case involves substance use, a Youngstown criminal lawyer from our team can also provide the specialized defense you need.