Expertise.com Homepage

2025

Last updated:

Best Criminal Defense Lawyers Columbus, OH

Our Recommended Best Columbus Criminal Defense Lawyers

We did the research for you!

  • Licensing
  • User Reviews
  • Mystery Shopping Calls

Our goal is to connect people with the best local professionals. We scored Columbus criminal defense lawyers on more than 25 variables across five categories, and analyzed the results to give you a hand-picked list of the best.

553Reviewed

335Curated

9Top Picks

Learn about our selection process.

Providers

featured provider = Featured Provider

Best Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving Columbus
492 S. High St., Suite 300, Columbus, OH 43215

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
5.0 (77)
Facebook
5.0 (18)
Avvo
5.0 (7)

Why choose this provider?

Dustin Blake handles criminal defense law, fighting for the rights of individuals facing allegations in Columbus and throughout Ohio. He challenges different kinds of felony and misdemeanor charges, such as domestic violence, OVI/DUI, sex crimes, and drug offenses. He also handles white collar crimes, including fraud, embezzlement, bribery, and money laundering. Blake is cited as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers. He also received an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell and a 10.0 rating from Avvo.

Dustin Blake is a criminal defense attorney who earned his J.D. from the University of Akron School of Law. He is admitted to practice law before the Ohio Supreme Court. Blake also holds an NHTSA Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Certification.

  • DWI/DUI

Best Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving Columbus
1335 Dublin Rd. Suite 205 A Rivers Edge Corporate, Columbus, OH 43215

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Avvo
5.0 (80)
Facebook
5.0 (8)
Google
5.0 (3)

Why choose this provider?

Led by one of Ohio's Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorneys by NACDA, the Steven T. Fox Law Firm, LLC, provides legal counsel and defense to clients in Columbus. It aggressively represents people arrested for criminal offenses, such as DUI/OVI, theft, assault, and underage drinking. It also handles post-conviction matters, including probation violations and expungements. Steven Fox, the firm's principal attorney, is certified to administer field sobriety tests and has completed the DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Course by the NHTSA and IACP.

Steven T. Fox earned his J.D. from the University of Toledo College of Law. He is a member of the National Academy of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the National Advocacy for DUI Defense. He was also honored as a Top Columbus Lawyer by Columbus CEO Magazine.

Best Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving Columbus
511 S High St,, Columbus, OH 43215

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
4.6 (70)
Avvo
4.8 (20)
Yelp
5.0 (3)

Why choose this provider?

With hundreds of criminal law cases handled since 1990, W. Joseph Edwards, Attorney at Law, serves clients in Columbus and the rest of Ohio. It aggressively represents individuals who are facing criminal charges, such as drug and sexual offenses, homicide, and DUI. It strategically navigates a high-stake jury trial and negotiates with the prosecution to achieve favorable outcomes. Principal attorney Joe Edwards is a frequent lecturer for the Columbus and Ohio State Bar Associations and the Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

  • Domestic Violence
  • Drug Crimes

Best Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving Columbus
35 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
4.9 (44)
Avvo
4.6 (11)

Why choose this provider?

John MacKinnon Attorney at Law has defended thousands of persons facing criminal accusations in Columbus and other Ohio cities. It offers protection against a range of misdemeanor or felony offenses, including solicitation, shoplifting, hit skips, traffic infractions, and DUI or DWI. It gives defendants advice on what they can and should do throughout the criminal defense process. Additionally, it represents the best interests of its clients in court, helping them secure the best outcomes attainable in their cases.

John MacKinnon received his Juris Doctor degree from Capital University Law School. He has over 35 years of experience in the legal field, specializing in DUI law. He is a regular practitioner in the Franklin County Courts System and the nearby Mayor's and Municipal Courts.

  • DWI/DUI

Best Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving Columbus
772 South Front Street Suite 200, Columbus, OH 43206

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
5.0 (114)
Avvo
5.0 (14)
Facebook
5.0 (9)

Why choose this provider?

Brandon E. Shroy, Attorney at Law, defends the accused in Columbus and the rest of Ohio. It advocates for the rights of those facing charges for crimes allegedly committed, like DUI, theft, assault, domestic violence, sex offenses, and drug possession. The firm also takes on cases like weapon under disability charges, improper handling of a firearm, and resisting arrest. Solo practitioner Brandon Shroy has been providing criminal defense representation since 2006 and practices in all central Ohio courts.

After graduating from Capital University Law School, Brandon E. Shroy worked as a Franklin County prosecuting attorney. He later moved to private practice to help the innocent and uphold their rights. Shroy is a member of the Columbus Bar Association, Ohio State Bar Association, and Federal Bar Association.

  • Theft & Burglary
  • Domestic Violence
  • Expungement

Best Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving Columbus
7716 Rivers Edge Drive, Columbus, OH 43235

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Avvo
5.0 (92)
Google
4.6 (40)
Facebook
5.0 (7)

Why choose this provider?

Dominy Law Firm, LLC, has been hailed as “Tier 1 Best Law Firm” by U.S. News & World Report. Serving clients in Columbus, Ohio, it comprises attorneys who are experts in various areas of criminal defense law. The team represents defendants accused of misdemeanors, felonies, and traffic offenses. It handles matters involving serious vehicular crimes like DUI/OVI, shoplifting, underage drinking, and heavy charges like murder and robbery. Dominy Law Firm limits the caseload it works on at a time so that its team can represent each client thoroughly.

Shawn Dominy was admitted to practice law in Ohio in 1997. He was one of two lawyers named Best Lawyers for both DUI/OVI defense and criminal defense in Ohio by the Best Lawyers in America. Shawn led the Ohio Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers as its former president.

Best Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving Columbus
901 South High St., Columbus, OH 43206

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
5.0 (35)
Avvo
4.8 (4)

Why choose this provider?

Michael J. Hayes, Esq., Criminal Lawyer, is a private criminal defense firm representing people in Columbus and the rest of Ohio. The firm protects the legal rights of those accused, strives to craft the best defense strategies, and works to get the best results for their cases. Its attorney, Michael Hayes, is experienced in handling criminal charges ranging from simple traffic tickets and OVI to serious misdemeanors and felonies. It also defends youth offenders in juvenile cases.

Michael J. Hayes, Esq., a criminal defense attorney, has years of experience and expertise in the criminal justice field. He previously worked as a probation officer in Franklin County and is currently a guest speaker at the Crossroads Recovery Services in the Driver Intervention Program. Hayes graduated from Capital University Law School.

  • DWI/DUI

Best Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving Columbus
4200 Regent Street Suite 200, Columbus, OH 43219

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Facebook
5.0 (27)
Google
3.6 (14)
Avvo
5.0 (6)

Why choose this provider?

Jeckering & Associates LLC is a general law firm that serves defendants in Columbus and throughout Ohio. It answers defendants' inquiries and helps them navigate the criminal defense legal system to aid them in making wise decisions in their actions. Its team evaluates the available evidence and consults with the relevant professionals to develop defense plans. It also represents its clients in court proceedings to help them achieve the best possible outcome in their cases. Bradley Jeckering, the firm's lead attorney, has over 10 years of legal experience.

  • Theft & Burglary
  • DWI/DUI

Best Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving Columbus
765 South High Street, Columbus, OH 43206

Expertise.com Rating

Review Sources

Google
4.9 (47)
Facebook
4.9 (18)
Avvo
5.0 (6)

Why choose this provider?

Funkhouser Law represents individuals in criminal defense cases in Columbus and the rest of Ohio. It offers personalized and compassionate legal advice for defendants to give them hope from the pressure imposed by the impending loss of reputation and freedom. The firm works on various charges that include domestic violence, drugs, guns, sex-related crimes, and traffic violations. It also helps clients have their past convictions expunged to give them a fresh start. Funkhouser Law was founded in 2000.

Douglas Funkhouser previously served as a military prosecutor. He was a judge advocate general from 1997 to 1998 and part of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command from 1998 to 2000. He completed the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General's School's Basic Course in Virginia in 1996 and the U.S. Marine Corps Trial Advocacy Program in Okinawa, Japan, in 1998.

  • DWI/DUI
  • Juvenile Crimes
  • Expungement

Compare Best Columbus Criminal Defense Lawyers

NameExpertise RatingAddressPromotionsLearn more
Dustin Blake
492 S. High St., Suite 300, Columbus, OH 43215
The Steven T. Fox Law Firm, LLC
1335 Dublin Rd. Suite 205 A Rivers Edge Corporate, Columbus, OH 43215
W. Joseph Edwards, Attorney at Law
511 S High St,, Columbus, OH 43215
John MacKinnon Attorney at Law
35 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215
Brandon E. Shroy Attorney at Law
772 South Front Street Suite 200, Columbus, OH 43206
Dominy Law Firm, LLC
7716 Rivers Edge Drive, Columbus, OH 43235
Michael J. Hayes Esq.
901 South High St., Columbus, OH 43206
Jeckering & Associates LLC
4200 Regent Street Suite 200, Columbus, OH 43219
Funkhouser Law
765 South High Street, Columbus, OH 43206

Disclaimer:  Consumers utilizing Expertise.com are free to communicate and contract with any lawyer they choose. Expertise.com is not involved in the confidential attorney-client relationship. Featured lawyers pay a reasonable advertising cost to market their legal services with Expertise.com and must meet similar selection criteria as other lawyers. All cases are different. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Columbus, OH Criminal Defense FAQs

  • What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Columbus, Ohio?

    (614) 645-3111 is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Columbus.

  • Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Columbus, Ohio?

    Requests for police report can be processed by the Columbus Division of Police by faxing the request to the Columbus Police Record Section at (614) 645-4001.

  • What qualifications should one consider when searching for a criminal defense attorney in Columbus?

    When searching for a criminal defense attorney in Columbus, it is important to consider qualifications such as specialization in criminal law, knowledge of the local legal system, responsiveness to clients, communication skills, and a proven track record of success. Hiring an attorney early on can increase the chances of a favorable outcome, and a good attorney can effectively present any doubts to the jury if the case goes to trial. Ultimately, it is crucial to choose an attorney who has the necessary experience and qualifications to provide the best possible defense.

  • What are the potential consequences of being accused of murder or attempted murder in Columbus?

    Allegations of murder or attempted murder in Columbus carry severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, life imprisonment, and even capital punishment. It is imperative to seek the assistance of a proficient Columbus criminal defense attorney without delay to safeguard your legal rights and construct an effective defense strategy.

  • What are your options if you have a warrant for your arrest in Columbus?

    If you have a warrant for your arrest in Columbus, you have a few options. You can wait until the police pick you up, turn yourself in, or hire a Columbus defense attorney. It is highly recommended to hire an attorney in this situation to help minimize the amount of time you may spend in jail, especially if you are not a flight risk. A skilled defense attorney can also help to lift warrants, including those issued for domestic violence, by taking the necessary steps such as meeting with the judge, prosecutor, and law enforcement to discuss the options in getting the warrant lifted.

  • Can you sue back an accuser for defamation in Columbus?

    Yes. It is possible to file a lawsuit against someone for defamation if you think they made false statements about you that resulted in harm to your reputation or negatively impacted your trade or business. To prove defamation, you must demonstrate that the statement was false, defamatory, and published. You must also show that you suffered harm as a result of the publication and that the defendant acted with the required degree of fault. It is recommended that you consult with a Columbus attorney to evaluate the specifics of your situation and determine if a lawsuit is feasible.

  • What felonies can be expunged in Columbus?

    Individuals who have been convicted of certain felonies may be able to expunge or seal their criminal records. However, it is important to note that not all felonies are eligible for expungement or sealing. Generally speaking, any felony that is not classified as a first or second-degree felony, or a crime of violence or a sex offense, may be eligible for expungement or sealing. To determine if your particular felony offense is eligible for expungement or sealing, it is recommended that you consult with an experienced Columbus defense attorney.