How We Can Help
Cases We Handle
Don't face legal challenges alone. Contact us at (330) 681-1120 to discuss your case.
Violent Crime Attorney in Summit County
Your Freedom is Worth the Fight. Call VanHo Law at (330) 681-1120
If you or someone you care about has been accused of a violent offense in Summit County, you are facing one of the most stressful moments of your life. Prison time, a permanent felony record, and damage to your reputation are all very real possibilities when these cases are not handled carefully.
At VanHo Law, we defend people charged with serious crimes in Akron and throughout this region. Our firm is led by Attorney VanHo, a former prosecutor and former assistant attorney general with more than 20 years of criminal law experience. We understand how the state builds violent cases, and we use that insight to plan a focused defense from the very beginning.
If you were arrested or learned that detectives want to question you, it is important to talk with a criminal defense lawyer in Summit County for calm, informed guidance. We are here to listen to your side, explain what to expect, and discuss your options in a confidential setting.
If you are under investigation, do not wait for charges to be filed. Contact a violent crime attorney in Summit County today at (330) 681-1120 or reach out through our online form for a free consultation. Our former prosecutor experience is your greatest asset.
Common Violent Crime Cases We Handle in Summit County
In Ohio, the legal framework for "offenses of violence" is broad and governed largely by Ohio Revised Code (ORC) Section 2901.01. Unlike states that use a single "violent crime" statute, Ohio categorizes a wide range of specific acts under this umbrella. These include offenses where physical harm is caused, attempted, or threatened against another person. It is vital to distinguish between these charges, as the nuances in the law often dictate the difference between a misdemeanor and a high-level felony.
These cases may involve allegations of:
- Simple assault
- Felonious or aggravated assault
- Domestic violence
- Robbery or aggravated robbery
- Burglary
- Weapons-related violent offenses
- Homicide and related charges, such as murder or manslaughter
No matter what label the state places on your case, we focus on the specific facts, your history, and how the law applies to your situation. As a violent crime lawyer in Summit County, we pay close attention to how judges in the Summit County Court of Common Pleas typically handle these offenses, and we adjust our strategy accordingly.
Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Violent Crime Convictions in Ohio
The consequences of a violent crime conviction in Ohio are life-altering. Beyond the immediate threat of prison, the state imposes harsh "collateral sanctions" that can follow you for decades.
Direct Penalties
Depending on the degree of the felony (F1 through F5) or misdemeanor, you could face:
- Prison Sentences: First-degree felonies can carry 3 to 11 years, while a life sentence is possible for murder or aggravated murder.
- Mandatory Sentencing: Many violent offenses in Ohio carry "mandatory" time, meaning a judge cannot grant probation or a lighter sentence.
- Hefty Fines: Financial penalties can reach $20,000 or more for high-level felonies.
Collateral Consequences
The "hidden" penalties are often just as damaging. A conviction can lead to a permanent loss of firearm rights under both state and federal law. You may face significant barriers to employment, as many professional licensing boards (nursing, teaching, and real estate) may revoke or deny licenses for violent offenders. Furthermore, a violent felony record can make securing stable housing nearly impossible and may disqualify you from certain public benefits or educational grants.
Because our commitment to our clients extends throughout Ohio and Pennsylvania, we understand how these consequences cross state lines and impact your life long-term.
How We Defend Violent Crime Charges in Summit County
When you come to us after a violent crime allegation, we treat your case as unique. Our first step is to learn what happened from your perspective, then compare that with police reports, body camera footage, and any available witness statements. We look for inconsistencies, missing information, and potential violations of your rights.
Attorney VanHo’s background as a prosecutor and assistant attorney general helps us anticipate how the Summit County Prosecutor’s Office may approach your case. We consider how the state is likely to frame the facts and what evidence they may rely on. This allows us to prepare targeted challenges to identification, intent, the reliability of witnesses, and the way evidence was collected.
Depending on the facts, potential defenses may include self-defense, defense of others, lack of intent, mistaken identity, or that the conduct charged does not match the level of offense the state is alleging. In some cases, we may focus on suppressing unlawfully obtained statements or evidence, which can significantly affect the strength of the prosecution’s file.
Throughout the process, we work to keep you informed and involved. We explain the legal options, the potential consequences of each path, and the practical realities of trial versus negotiation. Our goal is to provide a violent crime defense Summit County clients can rely on to be both thorough and honest, so you can make informed decisions about your future.
To talk with a violent crime attorney in Summit County, call (330) 681-1120 or fill out this online form today.
What To Do After An Arrest Or Investigation
If you have just been arrested or contacted by law enforcement about a violent incident, your decisions in the next few days can affect your entire case. Many people feel tempted to explain themselves to officers or detectives, especially if they believe the situation was a misunderstanding. That instinct is understandable, but it can be risky.
Courts in this area, including the Summit County Court of Common Pleas and Akron Municipal Court, often move quickly to schedule first appearances and set bond conditions. You may also face protection orders or no-contact orders that affect where you can live, who you can speak with, and whether you can return home. Violating these orders, even by accident, can make your situation much worse.
If you are under arrest or investigation, these steps can help protect you:
- Remain calm and avoid arguing with officers at the scene.
- Exercise your right to remain silent and politely request an attorney before answering questions.
- Avoid discussing the case with friends, family, or on social media.
- Keep any documents you receive from the jail or court, including bond paperwork and hearing dates.
- Contact a violent crime lawyer in Summit County, such as VanHo Law, as soon as possible.
How VanHo Law Can Help
Our role is to work to reduce the risks of a harsh conviction whenever the law and facts allow. That may involve challenging the reliability of the state’s evidence, arguing that the charge should be reduced, or presenting mitigating information about your background and circumstances.
In appropriate situations, we may seek resolutions that avoid the harshest penalties, although results always depend on the specific facts and decisions by the court and prosecution.
At VanHo Law, we bring the perspective of a former prosecutor and assistant attorney general, more than two decades of criminal law experience, and recognition as one of Ohio’s leading criminal defense attorneys. We defend clients in the Summit County Court of Common Pleas and surrounding courts, and we work to build strategies that reflect your goals and circumstances.
To discuss what is at stake in your situation, you can contact VanHo Law at (330) 681-1120 for a confidential consultation.
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"Treated like family, not just another client."Have had Adam in my life helping me for nearly 3 years. He has made me feel cared for. Great man and attorney.- John
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"Top Notch."Adam Van Ho was not only professional he was personable as well. I felt very comfortable talking with him and I put complete trust in him to help me in my case. He helped me immensely and I would highly recommend his services.- Suzanne
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"I highly recommend working with him!"Adam was a wonderful lawyer to work with during a very difficult situation. He was helpful, logical, and kept me calm throughout the process. I highly recommend working with him!- Leah
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"I truly felt I had the best representation."He handled everything calmly, with character and integrity, and was very quick to return calls.- Jennifer B.
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"Top-notch."He cares about his clients and getting the best results for them possible. Adam services are of great value. I recommend him to my family, friends, and clients.- Tom R.
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"Highly recommend."He never made us feel like we were bothering him when we had a million questions, and nearly always returned phone calls or text messages in a timely manner!- Steve G.
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"Happy that I chose to work with him."Very personable and quick to respond via phone or email. Always on time too! Impressive background. Happy that I chose to work with him.- Kim S.
What You Can Expect with Us
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Client-Focused ApproachWe transitioned to private practice to better serve families and individuals, providing personalized, dedicated legal support tailored to your needs.
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Respected & Trusted ReputationKnown for integrity and a commitment to justice, we’ve earned a reputation for handling tough legal matters with professionalism and determination.
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Strategic ApproachWe take a comprehensive approach to each case, considering not just the immediate impact but also the long-term consequences of our legal strategies.
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Statewide ServiceOur commitment to our clients extends throughout Ohio and Pennsylvania. We are willing to travel to you, ensuring you receive top-tier legal representation regardless of your location.
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Extensive Experience & Proven Track RecordWith experience as a former prosecutor and Assistant Ohio Attorney General, our firm offers a deep understanding of the law. Trusted for delivering results, we are a top choice for legal representation in Ohio.
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Free ConsultationWe believe in making quality legal representation accessible to everyone. That's why we offer free initial consultations to discuss your case and explore your options without any financial commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I talk to police before I call you?
You should speak with a defense attorney before talking to police. Even if you want to explain your side, statements can be misunderstood or used against you later. We can help you decide whether to answer questions and how to protect your rights during any interview.
Will I go to prison for a violent crime charge?
Prison is a possibility with many violent charges, but it is not automatic. The outcome depends on the specific offense, your record, and the strength of the evidence. Our goal is to analyze your case, look for defenses, and work to reduce your risk where the law allows.
How familiar are you with Summit County courts?
We regularly handle criminal matters in the Summit County Court of Common Pleas and in nearby municipal courts. Attorney VanHo’s decades of criminal law experience in Ohio give us practical insight into how violent cases typically move through these courts.
How will your firm keep me informed?
We make communication a priority. Our team explains each stage of the process, reviews important decisions with you, and answers questions as they arise. You will know upcoming court dates, what to expect at hearings, and how different choices may affect your case and your life.
Have you handled cases like mine before?
With over 20 years in criminal law, Attorney VanHo has handled many serious violent offense allegations, including assaults, domestic incidents, weapons charges, robberies, and homicide-related cases. We use that background to evaluate your situation and develop a strategy tailored to the specific facts of your case.
