Legal Question in Criminal Law in Ohio

adult law

I have a question about a legal issue in Ohio. I have a friend thats husband is 27 and had sexual relations , but not intercourse with a 15 year old girl. He is wondering what kind of time will he get in jail if he is found guilty. And , if he only has 6 grand to pay a attorney , would it be just as good to get a Public Defender ? I thought it would be just as good to get one , because I don't think 6 grand will last long in a case like this. Can you give me some advice for her ? Thank You. --name removed--Derr


Asked on 2/19/09, 5:21 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
David Weilbacher, Esq. Attorney at Law

Re: adult law

If your friend is charged with Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor under ORC 2907.04, and he has no prior convictions of this nature, he is looking at a 3rd Degree Felony which carries 1 to 5 years and a maximum $10,000 fine. The attorney fees would really depend on the strength of the evidence, and your friends desire to go to trial vs. negotiating the best possible plea agreement. If he has $6000, it is unlikely the court would appoint counsel, and lying about the extent of his finances would only bring more trouble. $6000 would be enough to retain an attorney, and possibly see the matter through preliminary hearings, review of the evidence, plea negotiations and sentencing. If he wants a trial, $6000 would be a tight budget, but doable. Have there been charges filed, and in what county?

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Answered on 2/19/09, 7:39 pm


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