Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Parma

Frequently Asked Questions

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

  The Parma Police Department responds to non-emergency calls at 440-885-1234.

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

  The Parma Police Department records room is at 5555 Powers Blvd Parma, OH and its phone number is 440-887-7300.

• What is a more common cause of criminal defense cases in Parma between violent and property crimes?

  As per 2021 data, Parma has had more property crimes than violent offenses. The former occurred at a frequency of 7.3 per 1,000, while the latter happened at a rate of 1.55 over 1,000. The state average is more than twice that of the city. Simple thefts are the most common non-violent offenses while assaults are the most recurring violent incidents.

• Is it wise to accept a plea of guilty to a less serious offense in Parma if a criminal defendant's chances of acquittal seem slim?

  It depends on whether or not the criminal defendant is actually guilty or not. If the client is innocent, it is wiser to get a lawyer because a conviction carries far-reaching social ramifications like the loss of current and future job opportunities, and an attorney is needed because prosecutors are adept at extracting plea deals from the guiltless. If you're guilty it's ok to accept the deal but still better to have a lawyer to get the lowest penalty possible.

• When does a criminal defendant Parma count as indigent and qualify for the services of a public defender?

  A criminal defendant in Parma and the state qualifies as an indigent if the gross income involved is no more than 1.875 times the federal poverty level, which in turn varies depending on how many people the individual supports in a single household. Other factors like dependency on public assistance and welfare are also taken into account.

• What are the ramifications of an illegal search in a criminal defense case in Parma?

  An illegal search in Parma and the state will result in the evidence obtained becoming inadmissible in court. The police must present a valid search warrant or properly invoke an exception to the warrant rule, such as freely given consent or seizure incident to a lawful arrest. Excluded evidence won't necessarily result in acquittal however if there is admissible evidence that supports the government's accusation.

• By order of severity, what are the classes of criminal offenses a defendant may be charged with in Parma?

  The classes by the severity of criminal offenses used in Parma and greater Ohio are felonies, misdemeanors, and infractions in descending order of gravity. Felonies are the most severe and involve jail time exceeding one year. Misdemeanors carry detention for up to a year and a fine, while infractions are minor mishaps that only carry a monetary penalty.