Best Akron Criminal Defense Lawyers

If you or a loved one have been charged with a crime in Akron, Ohio, having an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side can make all the difference. Criminal charges carry serious penalties like jail time, fines, probation and can impact your life for years to come. The stakes are high, so you need legal counsel you can trust to fight for your rights. But with so many options to choose from, how do you find the best criminal defense lawyer in Akron for your specific case?

I’ve put together this guide to help you understand what to look for when hiring a criminal defense attorney in Akron. I’ll recommend some of the top-rated lawyers in the city and provide tips on how to choose the right one for your needs. I know dealing with criminal charges is scary and confusing, but the more informed you are, the better chance you have of getting a favorable outcome.

What Makes a Great Criminal Defense Lawyer in Akron?

When searching for the best criminal defense lawyer in Akron, there are a few key qualities you want to look for:

• Extensive experience handling criminal cases similar to yours – Look for a lawyer who regularly deals with charges like DUI, drug crimes, theft, etc. Familiarity with your type of case is crucial.
• Strong record of positive case results – Do some research to see their past case results. A proven track record of dismissals, acquittals, reduced sentences and dropped charges is a must.
• In-depth knowledge of Ohio criminal law – They should be intimately familiar with Ohio’s criminal statutes, case law, court procedures and law enforcement tactics.
• Good rapport and communication – You need a lawyer who listens to you, answers your questions and keeps you informed throughout the legal process.
• Affordable rates – Their fees should be fair and transparent. Beware of lawyers who overcharge or nickel-and-dime you with hidden costs.

On top of this, look for criminal defense lawyers who are aggressive yet professional, think creatively to build a strong defense, and have a passion for protecting their clients’ rights. If you find a lawyer with all of these qualities, you’ve likely found someone who will fight tirelessly to achieve the best possible result in your case.

Top Criminal Defense Lawyers in Akron, Ohio

Based on client reviews, awards, experience and track record, here are my top picks for the best criminal defense attorneys currently practicing in the Akron area:

Walter J. Benson

With over 25 years of criminal law experience, Walter Benson is widely regarded as one of the top defense lawyers in Akron. He’s handled thousands of cases including high-profile murder trials, complex federal cases, drug trafficking, white collar crime, sex offenses and more. Clients praise his legal skills, straight-talking style and tireless work ethic.

Russell Legal Services

Led by Carl Russell, this firm is known for providing aggressive and personalized representation for people facing criminal charges in Akron. Russell is a former prosecutor who knows how the system works from the inside. He has an impressive track record of getting charges reduced or dismissed for clients accused of DUI, assault, drug crimes, domestic violence and other offenses.

Patrick J. Moro

Patrick Moro is an experienced trial lawyer who isn’t afraid to take on tough cases and fight for his clients’ rights in court. He handles state and federal criminal defense cases of all types, including white collar crimes, sex offenses, internet crimes, drug charges, weapons violations and more. Moro is also known for his success defending clients in high-stakes murder trials.

Sinn Law

Led by the father-son team of Adam and Jonathan Sinn, Sinn Law has a strong focus on personalized service and communication. Jonathan Sinn is a former prosecutor, giving him inside knowledge of the criminal justice system. The firm handles everything from DUI and traffic cases to serious violent felonies. Both attorneys have a record of success defending clients in Akron-area courts.

Jones Defense Firm

Attorney Ashley Jones is a tough, aggressive lawyer who isn’t afraid to take cases to trial and fight for full acquittals. She handles many high-profile cases including murder, rape, child pornography, internet sex stings, drug trafficking and federal conspiracy charges. Jones is also experienced with appeals, expungements and restoring gun ownership rights.

5 Tips for Choosing the Right Akron Criminal Defense Lawyer

Here are my top tips for finding the best criminal lawyer in Akron to handle your specific case:

1. Look for lawyers who specialize in your charges – A DUI lawyer may not be the best fit for a complex federal case, for example.
2. Read online reviews and talk to people in your network – Get first-hand feedback from past clients.
3. Meet with lawyers for a free consultation – Discuss your case details and assess their communication style.
4. Ask about case results and experience – Don’t hesitate to request specifics on their track record.
5. Compare fee structures – Look for fair rates and transparency about billing.

By following these steps, you can feel confident you are making the right choice. The stakes are high, so take the time to choose a criminal defense lawyer who is the perfect match for your needs.

How a Great Lawyer Defends Criminal Cases in Akron

The best criminal defense lawyers in Akron use a variety of proven strategies and techniques to build strong cases for their clients. Here’s an inside look at how top attorneys fight criminal allegations:

• Thoroughly investigate the facts – They leave no stone unturned looking into the circumstances of the arrest, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, visiting the crime scene, etc.
• Exploit procedural mistakes – They scrutinize the actions of law enforcement to spot any constitutional violations or other procedural errors.
• Negotiate with prosecutors – They leverage their skills and trial experience to negotiate favorable plea bargains when appropriate.
• File suppression motions – They challenge the legality of evidence seizure, interrogations, eyewitness identifications and other key elements of the prosecution’s case.
• Present compelling defense theories – For example, self-defense in assault cases, lack of criminal intent, mistaken identity, etc.
• Hire investigators and expert witnesses – Third-party specialists can critically examine evidence and testify for the defense.
• Highlight mitigating circumstances – They advocate for reduced charges and sentences by presenting mitigating factors to prosecutors and judges.

This arsenal of legal strategies is how skilled criminal defense lawyers in Akron build the strongest case possible and win favorable outcomes for clients facing criminal allegations. The prosecution has the burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and a great lawyer will hold them to that high standard.

Why Act Fast if You’re Facing Criminal Charges

If you’ve been arrested for or charged with a crime in Akron, it’s critical that you contact a defense lawyer immediately. Here are some key reasons why acting quickly is in your best interests:

• Avoid self-incrimination – Anything you say or do after an arrest can be used against you later. A lawyer can deal with law enforcement on your behalf.
• Preserve evidence – Your lawyer can start gathering evidence right away before it gets lost or destroyed.
• Hire investigators – Putting skilled investigators on the case early often leads to better defense strategies down the road.
• Send a message – Prosecutors may be more willing to reduce or drop charges if you show you’re mounting an aggressive defense.
• Release from jail – Your lawyer can file motions to get your bail reduced or get you released pre-trial.

Don’t take chances by waiting to hire a lawyer. The sooner you have expert legal counsel in your corner, the better your chances of minimizing penalties or avoiding conviction altogether.

Common Criminal Charges in Akron

To find the best lawyer for your case, it helps to understand some of the most common criminal offenses people face charges for in Akron:

DUI / OVI

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a frequent charge in Akron, thanks to active police enforcement. A conviction can lead to jail time, license suspension, fines and other penalties. A skilled DUI lawyer can challenge the traffic stop, breathalyzer test results and other evidence to fight the charges.

Drug Possession

Possession of illegal drugs like marijuana, cocaine, heroin and prescription medications without a valid prescription remains a common criminal charge. Convictions depend heavily on evidence like search procedures and handling of drugs after an arrest. An experienced drug crimes lawyer can attack the evidence and advocate for diversion programs.

Theft / Burglary

From shoplifting to white collar embezzlement, theft charges are prevalent in Akron courts. Skilled defense lawyers scrutinize the evidence, interview witnesses, build compelling defenses (like mistaken identity or lack of criminal intent) and negotiate reduced charges when appropriate.

Assault / Domestic Violence

Akron prosecutors take assault and domestic abuse charges very seriously. Allegations of self-defense, mitigating circumstances and credibility of the accuser can all be challenged by an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Diversion programs are possible alternatives to conviction.

Sex Crimes

Accusations of sexual assault, child pornography, solicitation, and other sex crimes call for highly experienced legal counsel. False allegations, illegally obtained evidence and inaccurate testimony can all be attacked. Skillful lawyers aim to avoid sex offender registration whenever possible.

No matter what type of criminal charges you face, consulting with a knowledgeable Akron defense lawyer is critical. Don’t go it alone against an experienced prosecutor – protect your rights with expert legal representation.

Questions to Ask When Hiring an Akron Criminal Defense Lawyer

Here are some key questions to ask during initial consultations as you search for the best criminal defense lawyer in Akron for your case:

• How much experience do you have handling my specific charges?
• What will your legal fees be, and what is included in those fees?
• What is your track record of case results for charges like mine?
• Are you willing to take my case to trial if necessary?
• How quickly do you return calls and emails from clients?
• How will you keep me informed throughout the legal process?
• Do you handle the entire case yourself or pass off work to associates or paralegals?
• Can you provide references from past clients I can contact?

By asking in-depth questions, you can better understand each lawyer’s experience, fee structure, track record and client service standards before deciding who to hire.

Conclusion

Facing criminal charges in Akron can be an extremely stressful and frightening experience. The consequences of a conviction can follow you for a lifetime. That’s why building the strongest legal defense possible with an experienced criminal lawyer should be your top priority.

Use this guide to better understand what to look for in a great criminal defense lawyer in Akron. Do your research to find an attorney with proven experience handling your specific charges. Schedule initial consultations and ask the right questions. Take the time to make an informed hiring decision.