Jeremy Dodgion

The primary difference between a misdemeanor and a felony is the severity of the offense and the potential penalties. A misdemeanor is generally a less serious crime and is typically punishable by up to one year in jail.

A felony is a more serious offense that can result in a prison sentence exceeding one year, along with substantial fines and other long-term consequences, such as the loss of certain civil rights. In the most serious cases, felony convictions may carry penalties of life imprisonment or, in some jurisdictions, the death penalty.

In most cases, yes. Criminal convictions are generally part of the public record and may appear on background checks conducted by employers, landlords, licensing boards, and others. Depending on the offense and your eligibility under Ohio law, however, you may be able to have your record sealed or expunged. Jeremy Dodgion can evaluate your case and determine whether you qualify for relief.

Most judges will offer a lighter sentence in exchange for a guilty plea at the arraignment. By pleading guilty and avoiding a court trial, you may receive a lesser punishment and avoid a potential harsher penalty. In addition, a guilty plea expedites the criminal process and eliminates a lengthy and extremely stressful trial process.

You have the right to represent yourself in a criminal case, but doing so can carry significant risks. Even seemingly minor charges can have lasting consequences, including fines, jail time, a permanent criminal record, and collateral effects on employment, housing, and professional licensing.

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If you are facing criminal charges—especially a misdemeanor or felony—having an experienced criminal defense attorney can make a meaningful difference. Jeremy Dodgion understands the criminal justice system, protects your constitutional rights, negotiates with prosecutors, and is prepared to defend you in court when necessary. Before making decisions that could affect your future, speak with an attorney who can explain your options and advocate for your best interests.

The best time to tell your story is as soon as possible—but ONLY to your attorney. The sooner Jeremy Dodgion understands your side of the events, the better he can preserve important details, identify potential defenses, and begin building the strongest possible case on your behalf.

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It is equally important to remember that anything you say to law enforcement or anyone else may be used against you. Before answering questions or making a statement, speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney. While you may have the opportunity to tell your story at trial, many cases are resolved long before they ever reach a courtroom. Having an attorney who knows your case from the beginning can make a significant difference throughout the criminal process.

Yes. While you are not required to have an attorney present at your arraignment, having experienced legal counsel from the very beginning of your case can be invaluable. An arraignment is often your first appearance before the court, and important decisions—such as bail, conditions of release, and future court dates—may be addressed.

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Jeremy Dodgion can advocate on your behalf, seek reduced bail or a release on your own recognizance when appropriate, and begin protecting your rights from day one. The earlier an attorney becomes involved, the more opportunities there may be to influence the outcome of your case.

Yes, of course. However, if you have been appointed a public defender, you generally cannot choose a different court-appointed attorney simply because you are dissatisfied. Courts typically require a valid legal reason—such as a conflict of interest or a complete breakdown in the attorney-client relationship—before appointing new counsel.

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If you want the freedom to choose the attorney who will represent you, you may hire private counsel at any stage of your case. Jeremy Dodgion provides experienced, personalized criminal defense and will work closely with you to develop a strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.

Miranda rights protect your constitutional right against self-incrimination during custodial police interrogation. Before law enforcement questions you while you are in custody, officers are generally required to inform you of your right to remain silent, that anything you say can be used against you in court, and your right to have an attorney present during questioning.

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If law enforcement fails to properly advise you of your Miranda rights when required, it does not automatically mean your case will be dismissed or that you cannot be convicted. However, it may allow Jeremy Dodgion to challenge the admissibility of statements you made—and, in some cases, evidence obtained as a result of those statements. Protecting your constitutional rights is a critical part of building a strong criminal defense.

Every case is different, and the sentence you may receive depends on several factors, including the nature and severity of the offense, your criminal history, the applicable sentencing laws, and the specific facts of your case. In many cases, the judge has discretion in determining an appropriate sentence within the limits established by law.

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Potential penalties can range from fines, probation, or community service to jail or prison. Jeremy Dodgion works to pursue the most favorable outcome possible by advocating for reduced charges, alternative sentencing when appropriate, and the strongest defense available at every stage of the case.

It depends on the type of hearing and the charges involved. In some cases, your attorney may be able to appear on your behalf, allowing you to avoid appearing in court. However, for many hearings—particularly in felony cases or other critical stages of the proceedings—your personal appearance is required.

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Never assume you can miss a court date. Failing to appear when required can result in serious consequences, including the issuance of a warrant for your arrest. If you are unable to attend a scheduled hearing, contact Jeremy Dodgion as soon as possible. He can advise you whether your appearance is required and, when appropriate, request that the court excuse your absence.

The Fourth Amendment protects you against unreasonable searches and seizures. In many situations, law enforcement must have either your consent or a valid search warrant before searching you, your home, your vehicle, or your property.

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However, there are important exceptions to the warrant requirement. Under certain circumstances—such as emergencies, the presence of probable cause, a lawful arrest, or other recognized legal exceptions—officers may be permitted to conduct a search without your consent or a warrant.

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If you believe law enforcement conducted an unlawful search, Jeremy Dodgion can evaluate the circumstances and determine whether the search violated your constitutional rights. If it did, he may be able to seek suppression of the evidence obtained as a result of the illegal search.