Montgomery Criminal Defense Lawyer
Landing in Hamilton County’s criminal justice system is overwhelming. Whether it starts with flashing police lights or an unexpected knock on the door, the weight of criminal allegations can feel crushing. In Montgomery, Ohio, a conviction could mean thousands of dollars in fines, months or years in prison, or the lifelong burden of a felony record. Your reputation, your career, and your family life are all at risk. Now is the time to act and reach out to an experienced Hamilton County defense attorney.
Call (513) 338-1890 today to speak with Montgomery criminal defense lawyer Brad Groene and Luftman, Heck & Associates. Your consultation is always free and confidential.
Theft and Property Crimes in Montgomery
Theft-related crimes are among the most common offenses in Montgomery, according to data from the Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services. In Ohio, taking property without consent is charged as theft, and the severity depends on the value of the property involved:
- Petty Theft (under $1,000): Typically a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and fines up to $1,000.
- Felony Theft ($1,000+): Felony offenses can mean 6–12 months in prison and fines up to $2,500.
Robbery and burglary charges carry even harsher consequences. If violence or the threat of force is involved, a burglary can escalate to a felony punishable by years behind bars—sometimes as many as eight years. These cases are aggressively prosecuted in Hamilton County. Having an attorney who knows the local courts can make all the difference in protecting your future.
DUI / OVI Charges in Montgomery
Ohio law refers to drunk driving as OVI (Operating a Vehicle while Impaired). In Montgomery, OVI charges are frequently filed after stops by local police or Ohio State Highway Patrol. An officer may charge you if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, or if you are found to be driving with drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, or methamphetamines in your system under the Ohio Revised Code §4511.19.
Penalties for OVI escalate with each offense within a 10-year lookback period:
- First Offense: 3 days–6 months in jail, $250–$1,000 in fines, license suspension up to 3 years.
- Second Offense: 10 days–1 year in jail, $350–$1,500 in fines, license suspension up to 5 years.
- Multiple Offenses: Potential $10,000 fines, license suspension for life, and up to a year in prison.
Even a first OVI can cause severe financial and personal disruption. But police procedures, chemical test accuracy, and probable cause can all be challenged. Defense lawyer Brad Groene has represented hundreds of OVI cases in Hamilton County courts and understands how to fight these charges strategically.
Motor Vehicle Theft in Montgomery
Grand theft auto is considered a felony in Ohio and carries life-changing penalties. If convicted, you may face prison time, steep fines, and a felony record that can follow you forever. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards routinely check criminal records, meaning a conviction could cost you opportunities for years to come.
This is why it’s crucial to work with a defense lawyer who understands the stakes. Brad Groene has defended countless clients accused of vehicle theft and related offenses in Montgomery and throughout Hamilton County. He can review the evidence, challenge the prosecution’s case, and fight to protect your rights at every stage.
The Montgomery Legal Process for Criminal Cases
Criminal cases in Montgomery typically proceed through the Hamilton County Municipal Court or Court of Common Pleas, depending on the severity of the charges. Here’s what to expect:
- Investigation & Arrest – Police gather evidence and file charges.
- Arraignment – You enter a plea before a judge.
- Pre-Trial Motions – Your attorney may challenge evidence or request dismissal of charges.
- Plea Negotiations – Many cases resolve through negotiated agreements.
- Trial – If no agreement is reached, your case may proceed before a judge or jury.
- Sentencing – Convictions carry penalties including jail, probation, or fines.
Having an attorney who knows the Hamilton County court system is critical. Our firm regularly represents clients in these courts and knows how prosecutors approach these cases.
Why Choose a Montgomery Criminal Defense Lawyer
Facing criminal charges in Montgomery is not something you should attempt to navigate alone. Prosecutors are determined to secure convictions, and without proper representation, the penalties you face may be far more severe. At Luftman, Heck & Associates, we provide:
- Direct guidance from attorney Brad Groene, who has defended clients across Hamilton County
- Local insight into Montgomery’s law enforcement and Hamilton County courts
- Personalized defense strategies tailored to your case
- 24/7 availability to answer your questions and respond to emergencies
We proudly defend clients across Greater Cincinnati, including Clermont County, Warren County, Butler County, Kenton County, and other nearby areas. See the full list of areas we serve here.
FAQs About Criminal Defense in Montgomery
What should I do immediately after being arrested in Montgomery?
Do not resist arrest or argue with officers. Politely request your right to remain silent and call a lawyer immediately.
Can theft or OVI charges be reduced in Hamilton County?
Yes, in some cases charges may be reduced or dismissed depending on the strength of the evidence, police conduct, and other factors your attorney can challenge.
Will I have to go to trial for my case?
Not always. Many cases are resolved through plea agreements or dismissals before reaching trial. However, your attorney should be prepared to defend you in court if necessary.
How long will a criminal charge stay on my record?
Felony convictions typically remain on your record permanently, while certain misdemeanors may qualify for expungement. A lawyer can explain your eligibility.
Contact Montgomery Criminal Defense Lawyer Brad Groene
If you’re facing criminal charges in Montgomery or Hamilton County, don’t wait. Call Luftman, Heck & Associates today at (513) 338-1890 or email us at advice@cincinnaticriminalattorney.com. Attorney Brad Groene is available 24/7 to provide the defense representation you need.
