All cases are on a privately retained basis. Our Criminal Defense Practice Group is supervised by Attorney Brad Koffel.

Mr. Koffel is listed in "Best Lawyers in America" and "Ohio Super Lawyers" as one of the top lawyers in Ohio.

In many of our  cases, clients contact us shortly after being identified as a target of a criminal investigation.  Typically, a detective contacts our client by phone or in person and requests an interview.  If you or someone you know is under investigation and have not been formally charged, it is critically important to seek legal counsel.  Too often, individuals falsely believe that cooperating with a detective is in their best interests.  It is wise to let a defense lawyer step into your shoes and speak on your behalf. 

We limit our new criminal cases to certain Ohio misdemeanor and Ohio felony cases. We will review any case, for free and confidentially, by telephone consultation. If we do not accept the case, we will make a referral to another attorney that we personally know. 

Investigation Fee: In most cases, we require that a minimum investigation fee be paid to establish a confidential, ethical, and objective review of our client's present legal situation. An Investigation Fee is necessary to cover our time to meet the client, handle any immediate court date(s), review any evidence against our client, discuss the case with a detective or prosecutor, and then render a legal opinion as to our client's options. An Investigation Fee ranges from $1,100 - $2,500 depending upon the severity of the case.

Defense & Representation Fee: In most instances, a second flat fee will then be quoted for our lawyers and staff to represent and defend the client.

We have five Categories of cases and corresponding fees as follows:

Category I Cases: $30,000 and up

Category II Cases: $15,000 - $30,000

Category III Cases: $7,500 - $15,000

Category IV Cases: $5,000 - $7,500

Category V Cases: all fees below $5,000

To inquire about retaining our firm to represent you or someone you know, please call 614 / 481- 4480

 

Current Criminal Defense Cases We are Defending (May 2008):

 

Involuntary Manslaughter -- Union County, Ohio

Embezzlement -- alleged $3 Million

Embezzlement -- alleged $30,000 (Union County, Ohio)

Embezzlement -- alleged $100,000 (Fayette County, Ohio)

Theft of Prescription Drugs -- Franklin County, Ohio

Theft of Prescription Drugs -- Franklin County, Ohio

Possession of Heroin -- Delaware County, Ohio

Possession of Heroin -- Franklin County, Ohio

Aggravated Vehicular Homicide -- Franklin County, Ohio

Aggravated Vehicular Homicide -- Fayette County, Ohio

Trafficking Prescription Drugs -- Champaign County, Ohio

Trafficking Prescription Drugs -- Franklin County, Ohio

Possession of MDMA (Ecstacy) -- Franklin County, Ohio

Disseminating Harmful Material to a Minors -- Belmont County, Ohio

Vehicular Homicide -- Perry County, Ohio

Vehicular Homicide -- Franklin County, Ohio

Vehicular Manslaughter -- Franklin County, Ohio

Rape -- Franklin County, Ohio

Aggravated Vehicular Assault -- Columbus, Ohio

Burglary and Receiving Stolen Property -- Franklin County, Ohio

 

 

Recent Ohio Criminal Defense Cases We Handled:

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Through April 2008

 

Nurse Indicted for Theft of Narcotics at Hospital--our client, an R.N. at a local Columbus, Ohio hospital, was indicted for theft of narcotics in early 2008. It was alleged that she stole pain killers from the hospital. Her case is being placed into a deferred prosecution agreement also known as diversion. After our client completes a the requisite conditions of this agreement, her indictment will be dismissed and she will not have a criminal record. The Ohio Nursing Board agreed to renew her license and not suspend her. (Represented by Attorney Brad Koffel).

2d Degree Felony Assault Charges Dismissed on Day of Jury Trial -- our client was involved in a fight near OSU's campus in 2007. He was provoked into a verbal argument that escalated into a physical confrontation. Outnumbered and intoxicated, our client attempted to defend himself. He threw a single punch which landed squarely on the aggressor's jaw. The aggressor fell to the pavement and was seriously injured as a direct result of his fall. The aggressor soon became the victim once police were called to the scene. Our client never denied striking the other person. However, as a result of the injuries sustained, our client was indicted with a 2d degree felony assault carrying a minimum 2 years in prison. Our client rejected a series of felony plea bargain offers which would have resulted in him being placed on community control (probation). On the morning of trial, the prosecutor was forced to dismiss the case as a result of the victim not coming to court to testify. (Represented by Attorney Tod Brininger).

Rape Case Dropped Against Client --our client was accused of Rape by an individual who presented a truly outrageous allegation to a local police department. The detective interviewed our client, without counsel, and had the client submit to an extremely unreliable form of polygraph called a voice stress analyzer. The detective concluded that our client was not being honest and arrested our client and charged him with Rape. After an exhaustive 4 month investigation and our private investigators canvassing two states, the witness's credibility was seriously brought into doubt. A pre-indictment investigative file was prepared by Attorney Brad Koffel and presented to the county prosecutor's office. After an additional 3 months of reviewing the defendant's position, the county prosecutor's office rejected the case and refused to take the client's case to grand jury. He now will be seeking unspecified damages from the witness in a civil case. (Represented by Attorney Brad Koffel)

 

Morphine and Oxycodone Possession While Boarding Plane Dropped -- our client was arrested by federal and local authorities after attempting to board a domestic flight from Port Columbus while in possession of morphine and oxycodone without a prescription. After 4 months of representation, an agreement was reached with the prosecutor's office where he would be accepted into the pre-trial Diversion Program. Upon successful completion of this program, his indictment will be dismissed. (Represented by Attorney Brad Koffel)

 

Marijuana Possession & Drug Paraphernalia Charges Dismissed -- client's case dismissed. He will pay court costs.

Prescription Drug Abuse Dismissed for Diversion--our client was charged with possessing a prescription belonging to another person. The case was accepted into a pre-trial diversion program.

(February 2008) Felony Assault on a Police Officer Dropped to Misdemeanor--our client was arrested and charged with Assault on a Police Officer, a 4th degree felony in Ohio, after repeatedly kicking and striking an officer while being placed in the back of the cruiser.

Trafficking in Marijuana Case Diverted to Intervention in Lieu of Conviction -- our client, a freshman at a local private university was indicted for Trafficking in Marijuana. An offense punishable with prison up to 18 months.  Through significant plea negotiations, the Indictment was amended to an offense that made our client eligible for "Treatment in Lieu of Conviction" (known in Ohio as "Intervention in Lieu of Conviction").  After the client completes 1 year of "good behavior" and counseling, his Indictment will be dismissed.  (Represented by Attorneys Brad Koffel and Tod Brininger).

Vandalism Charge Amended to a Misdemeanor– our client was charged with vandalism after he kicked out the rear window of a police cruiser. After 9 months of representation, our client pled to attempted vandalism, amending his charge from a felony to a misdemeanor. He will pay restitution and be on probation for one year. (Represented by Attorneys Tod Brininger, Steve Fox, and Brad Koffel).

Aggravated Menacing / Telephone Harassment -- CASE DISMISSED -- our client, a local high school teacher and football coach, was accused of aggravated menacing and telephone harassment over a soured relationship.  After 4 months of defense, and with the agreement of the State and prosecuting witness, all charges were dismissed against our client.  (Represented by Attorney Steve Fox).

Rape Charge Against Client DROPPED  - our client was accused of "date rape" in early 2007.  The client hired Attorney Brad Koffel to represent and advise him.  After 4 months of investigation and passing 2 polygraph exams, the allegetions against our client were concluded to be false.  The motive for the fabrication are unclear.  (Represented by Attorney Brad Koffel)

NOT GUILTY VERDICT - Jury Acquits Client Accused of Domestic Violence & Assault -- our client was accused of domestic violence and assault by his ex-wife.  This is the second time she accused our client of this charge.  The first case was dismissed for lack of evidence.  While this case was pending, she claimed our client violated a protection order and had our client arrested.  That charge was also dismissed at the arraignment.  While our client was in jail after one of his arrests, his ex-wife cleaned out the bank accounts of nearly $15,000.  The court banned him from his home while the ex-wife lived there.  She then moved in her boyfriend and continued to taunt our client and bait him into violating the protection order.  After 5 months of waiting for his day in court, our client was finally cleared of any wrongdoing in a 3 day jury trial.  The jury only needed about 2 hours to render a "Not Guilty" verdict.  During the week of his trial, his ex-wife once again filed yet another violation of a protection order.  Our client has now requested that the City Attorneys office file charges against his ex-wife for Falsification and Filing False Police Reports.  Charges against her are being investigated.  (Represented by Attorneys Steve Fox and Tod Brininger).

Fleeing, Drug Possession, Resisting Arrest Charges Result in $100 Fine & No Jail -- our client was a passenger in a vehicle that engaged Columbus Police Department in a pursuit in the OSU campus area.  After wrecking, our client and the driver fled on foot and were later caught and arrested.  There was a sizable amount of marijuana found on our client.  With absolutely no prior criminal history, this father of 2 young children was given a benefit of a tremendous plea bargain after nearly 5 months of representation.  All charges were either dropped or amended to "disorderly conduct" and he was fined just $100.  (Represented by Attorney Tod Brininger).

Embezzlement Case Results in Suspended Prison Sentence -- our client was employed by a national retailer as a manager.  She was accused of embezzling nearly $22,000 over a 5 month period in 2005.  She was indicted and retained Attorney Brad Koffel to represent her.  She entered a plea to a single count of theft and received a suspended prison sentence.  She will be on community control (probation) for a period of 3 years.  She was not fined but must pay the court costs of her prosecution.  (Represented by Attorney Brad Koffel).

Burglary Charges Against Single Mother Dropped to Misdemeanor -- our client, a 31 year old single mom, was indicted on a single count of Burlgary.  Suspecting that her boyfriend was cheating on her, our client drove to her friend's house whom she suspected was sleeping with her boyfriend.  The back door was open, she entered, and a fight ensued between our client and this other woman.  Under Ohio law, entering the dwelling of another with the purpose of committing any additional crime is a felony.  Today, based upon our client's good record and remorse, the State agreed to amend the indictment to Aggravated Trespass.  Our client was sentenced to 1 year of non-reporting probation. She was not fined but was merely ordered to pay the court costs of the case.  (Represented by Attorney Steve Fox)

Client Facing Minimum 2 Years in Prison Receives Misdemeanor & Fine: our client, a 20 year old junior in college, was arrested and charged with 2nd degree felony aggravated burglary, criminal damaging, and underaged consumption of alcohol as the result of entering a fraternity house and engaging in some mild vandalism.  The prosecutor eventually agreed to amend the felony to a misdemeanor and dismiss the underaged drinking and criminal damaging charges.  Our client received a $300 fine including all court costs.  (Represented by Attorney Brad Koffel)

NOT GUILTY VERDICT -- Client Accused of Embezzling from Employer - our client was accused of embezzling from her employer.  The first indictment was dismissed on the day of trial by the prosecution for lack of evidence.  The charges were re-filed.  The case proceeded to trial.  Our client was acquitted of all charges that she stole money from her employer, a national retail store. (Represented by Attorney Steve Fox)

Drug Trafficking: No Indictment - client, a local college freshman, was being investigated for Drug Trafficking.  Under Ohio law it is a felony to "give" a prescription drug to another.  Prosecutor agreed that the totality of the circumstances did not justify indictment of the client.  (Represented by Attorney Brad Koffel)

2 Separate Cocaine Possession Arrests 9 Days Apart - client, a 29 year old Westerville man was charged with cocaine possession twice in 9 days.  Client received offer from State to a suspended jail sentence and drug treatment.  (Represented by Attorney Tod Brininger)

High School Senior Indicted for Drugs at School - client, an 18 year old local high school senior was indicted for possession of ecstacy while on school grounds.  Client's indictment amended to a misdemeanor.  Client receives a suspended jail sentence and probation.  (Represented by Attorney Brad Koffel)

Client Receives Deferred Prosecution Agreement on Prescription Drug Abuse Case - client, a 55 year old man indicted for Prescription Drug charges, was granted a rare Diversion opportunity.  Upon successful completion of Diversion, the indictment and all charges will be dismissed.

Theft charge of $56,000 from employer - after a year of representation, client's felony charges amended to 3 counts of misdemeanor theft. Client ordered to serve 15 consecutive weekends in jail. (Represented by Attorney Brad Koffel)

Theft of $8,000 from two employers - Columbus Ohio theft / embezzlement client receives probation, suspended jail sentence. (Represented by Attorney Brad Koffel)

Theft of $12,000 - Columbus Ohio theft case - client receives deferred prosecution agreement. After one year of counseling, felony indictment will be dismissed. (Represented by Attorney Brad Koffel)

CCW / Weapons Charges / Aggravated Menacing in Columbus Ohio- client allegedly threatened another with a gun. Client's vehicle stopped after 911 call. Gun found concealed in back seat. Client's indictment for Carrying Concealed Weapon amended to misdemeanor. Client received probation, no jail. (Represented by Attorney Brad Koffel)

Felony DUI in Ohio - client indicted for felony DUI. Under Ohio felonly DUI laws, mandatory minimum prison sentence is 1 - 5 years.  Client sentenced to 120 days in county jail with work release after 60 days. (Represented by Attorney Brad Koffel)

Receiving Stolen Property / Theft - Columbus, Ohio receiving stolen property / theft - client accused of stealing nearly $10,000 worth of car parts and putting them on E-Bay.  After being denied Diversion, client hires Koffel & Jump and is given a second chance at Diversion. (Represented by Attorney Brad Koffel)

Rape Investigation -- Charges Dismissed - Columbus, Ohio Rape investigation - client, an orderly at a nursing home, was accused of raping an elderly patient. Client passed our private polygraph. Results were shared with the Detective investigating the case. Client also agreed to recorded interview with the Detective.  All charges were dropped. Unfortunately, our client still lost his job. (Represented by Attorney Brad Koffel)

Prescription Forgery - Deception to Obtain Dangerous Drugs in Ohio - client accused of calling in her own prescription for pain pills to pharmacy.  Client received Intervention in Liue of Conviction ("Treatment in Lieu").  Indictment to be dismissed and all charges dropped after one year of counseling.  (Represented by Attorney Brad Koffel)

Drug Trafficking Investigation
Client was under investigation for allegedly making and distributing large amounts of Ecstasy. Evidence was seized from his residence that, if convicted, would have resulted in client serving a mandatory 10-year prison sentence. Client retained Mr. Koffel to represent him during this investigation. Due to an improper search and seizure by detectives, the client was never charged with a crime, and has never resumed this activity.

Rape Investigation in Ohio
Upper Arlington man was under investigation for allegedly engaging in non-nonsexual sex with a woman who came home with him from a local bar. Client retained Mr. Koffel to represent him. After lengthy discussions with the investigating detective, no charges were filed.

2nd Degree Felony Ohio Aggravated Vehicular Assault (Mandatory 2-8 years in prison, mandatory lifetime license suspension)
Columbus man was charged with aggravated vehicular homicide after killing his best friend in a tragic car accident in Warren County, Ohio. Client gave a blood sample which was over twice the legal limit. Due to various issues concerning the blood test and with the consent of the victim's family, client was sentenced to just 6 months of work-release, community service, a license suspension, and a fine. Client volunteered to support the victim's daughter and contribute to her college fund. Represented by Mr. Koffel and Attorney Charles Rittgers of Lebanon, OH.

1st Degree Felony Ohio Aggravated Burglary
Columbus man broke into rear door of residence while homeowners were asleep upstairs; homeowner, a police officer, confronted intruder in kitchen, struggle ensued, wife called 911, police responded and arrested intruder and charged him with Aggravated Burglary which carries 3-10 years in prison. Mr. Koffel was hired to defend the client and successfully negotiated a plea to a misdemeanor-aggravated trespass, suspended jail sentence, and fine only.

3rd Degree Felony (1-5 years Prison) Child Endangering
Columbus mom charged with endangering a child (a 3rd Degree Felony which carries 1-5 years in prison). After an exhaustive investigation into the allegations against the client, the State agreed to settle on the day of trial. Mr. Koffel was hired to represent the client. On the day of trial the State agreed to a misdemeanor plea, no jail, no fine, and only probation.

Multiple Felony Count Indictment for Assault on a Police Officer, Kidnapping, and a Repeat Violender Offender Specification (Mandatory Minimum 13 years - 40 years in Prison)
Chillicothe man was indicted for breaking into his ex-girlfriend's residence, holding her family hostage, and then engaging in a gun shootout with police wounding a Ross County deputy. Client was on parole for a prior felony assault and had his parole revoked resulting in him serving the remaining 10 years of his sentence. Mr. Koffel and Attorney Joe Edwards successfully negotiated client's prison sentence to run concurrent to his parole violation netting the client just an additional 3 years in prison for this crime.

2nd Degree Felony Major Theft Ring & Racketeering
Client was indicted after a lengthy multi-county investigation indicated he was part of the largest Pawn Shop / Theft ring in Columbus' history. Client was indicted in 3 counties for allegedly stealing over $100,000 worth of goods from Lowes, Home Depot, and other businesses. RESULT: 3 Years incarceration. Represented by Mr. Koffel.

4th Degree Felony Ohio Theft of Prescription Drugs
Client was an employee of local drug store and stole prescription drugs. State agreed to amend the indictment to a misdemeanor, no fine, probation only. Represented by Mr. Koffel.

2nd Degree Felony Assault in Ohio (Mandatory 2-8 years in Prison)
Client, a doctor, was allegedly intoxicated and attempted to strangle the driver of his cab on I-670. Client had previously been declined boarding on a flight due to his intoxication. Client hired Mr. Koffel to represent him. After a 1 week jury trial, the judge declared a mistrial due to juror misconduct. On the eve of the re-trial, the State offered a misdemeanor, fine only.

Juvenile Rape in Ohio
Client, a 12-year-old boy, was accused of a sex act with a girl, under the age of 13. The victim and the client were friends. The family of the boy hired Mr. Koffel to represent him. If convicted, the boy faced placement in the Department of Youth Services until he was 21. RESULT: the State agreed to offer a 3rd degree misdemeanor, 90 days of house arrest, and counseling. REPRESENTED BY MR. KOFFEL.

4th Degree Felony Burglary in Ohio  amended to misdemeanor and probation
Columbus man allegedly entered another person's residence in an attempt to allegedly buy crack cocaine. Home happened to be occupied by a family - not drug dealers. Client indicted for burglary. RESULT: Aggravated Criminal Trespass, a misdemeanor, fine and probation only. REPRESENTED BY MR. KOFFEL.

4th Degree Ohio Felony Fraud / Forgery (Workers Compensation Fraud / Forgery)
Client's company was under investigation by the Ohio Attorney General's Office for alleged fraud and forgery relating to Workers Compensation. Client retained Mr. Koffel to represent him. RESULT: Misdemeanor, fine only, case expunged one year later.

4th Degree Felony Possession of LSD in Ohio
While on probation for prior drug offense, client was arrested on possession of LSD charges. RESULT: State agreed to misdemeanor charges, house arrest, fine, and probation. Represented by Mr. Koffel.

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***NOTE: THIS IS A SAMPLING OF RECENT NOTEWORHTY CASES. IT IS NOT A FULL ACCOUNTING OF ALL OUR CASES. WE HAVE CASES THAT ARE NOT SUCCESSFULLY RESOLVED. EVERY CASE IS DIFFERENT. WE SHARE THIS INFORMATION ONLY TO ENCOURAGE CLIENTS TO DISCUSS THEIR RESPECTIVE CASE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL.