The Flowers Law Firm

330-468-4878

Criminal Defense

The Flowers Law Firm takes a proactive approach when representing clients accused of committing a crime or traffic offense. Our attorneys have experience representing clients accused of both felonies and misdemeanors, in both Cuyahoga and Summit Counties. Similarly, we have represented clients in most local municipal (Parma, Bedford, Berea, Stow, Medina etc...) and mayor's courts (Seven Hills, Macedonia, Parma Hts., Brooklyn etc...). In addition, our attorneys have appeared in court and represented clients charged with various criminal and traffic offenses, including OVI/DUI, assault, theft, receiving stolen property, domestic violence, disorderly conduct, speeding, operating a vehicle without a license, drug possession and possessing criminal tools. As a result, and through zealous aggressive representation, the Flowers Law Firm can help you achieve a favorable outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the differences between misdemeanors and felonies?

Generally speaking, crimes that are classified as misdemeanors are less serious. As such, misdemeanors are handled at the municipal court level. Municipal courts are smaller courts located in local cities, such as Parma, Berea, Bedford, Garfield Heights, etc... If you are charged only with a misdemeanor, your criminal case will not usually leave the municipal court.

Felonies, however, may originate at the municipal court level, but will be “bound over” or sent to the common pleas court of that county (Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas, Lorain County Court of Common Pleas, Lake County Court of Common Pleas, Summit County Court of Common Pleas etc…).

More importantly, however, the key difference between misdemeanors and felonies is the punishment that can be imposed. If you are charged with a misdemeanor you cannot be sentenced to more than six months in jail on that offense. If convicted of a felony, you could serve a prison sentence.

In addition, if you are charged with a felony you are entitled to more procedural protections than if you are charged with a misdemeanor (preliminary hearing, indictment by a grand jury).

What is the difference between jail and prison?

Jails are small, temporary holding facilities found in municipalities, such as Parma, Berea, Bedford, Garfield Heights, etc...

Prisons are run by the State of Ohio and are designed for long term confinement.

What are the maximum sentences and fines for misdemeanor convictions in Ohio?

  • First-degree misdemeanor: up to 180 days in jail and up to $1,000.00 in fines;

  • Second-degree misdemeanor: up to 90 days in jail and up to $750.00 in fines;

  • Third-degree misdemeanor: up to 60 days in jail and up to $500.00 in fines;

  • Fourth degree misdemeanor: up to 30 days in jail and up to $250.00 in fines;

  • Minor misdemeanor: no jail sentence and up to $150.00 in fines.

Each criminal case, whether a misdemeanor or a felony, can be complex and have many issues that will require an attorney. The Flowers Law Firm and Cleveland Attorney Corey Flowers can provide you with a felony or misdemeanor criminal defense lawyer who will advocate on your behalf and zealously represent you.