Criminal and DUI / OVI Defense in Canal Winchester Mayor’s Court
If you have been charged with criminal offense, such as a DUI / OVI, drug offense, or misdemeanor in the Canal Winchester Mayor’s Court, contact Johnson Legal, LLC at (614) 987-0192 and speak with Attorney David Johnson regarding your case. Prior to appearing in court, review the information on this website, such as the information on this page, the charges and potential consequences, possible defenses and the court process.
Types of Cases Heard in Canal Winchester Mayor’s Court
Canal Winchester Mayor’s Court hears misdemeanor criminal cases that have allegedly occurred in the city of Canal Winchester. These are typically a violation of the city’s codified ordinances. While there are a wide variety of cases that could be heard, common types of cases that are heard include:
- DUI / OVI
- Misdemeanor drug crimes (e.g., marijuana possession)
- Certain theft offenses (e.g., shoplifting)
- Assault
Contact Information for Canal Winchester Mayor’s Court
Address: 36 South High Street, Canal Winchester, Ohio 43110
Phone: (614) 837-7691
Website: Canal Winchester Mayor’s Court
Canal Wincehster Court Personnel and Process
Mayor’s court are presided over by the local Mayor unless a magistrate is appointed. A magistrate is basically the same as a judge. The magistrate makes rulings on legal issues and imposes sentences on offenders. In Canal Winchester, the Mayor has appointed a magistrate to preside over the Mayor’s Court. Hearings are held on the first and third Thursday of each month at 1:00 PM.
Court Process
For some cases, such as minor traffic tickets, you may pay your fine in person at the above address, online or over the phone. However, simply paying the fine is an admission of guilt. If you don’t wish to admit guilt, hire an attorney and attend the arraignment (the first court appearance). Pleading not guilty may result in a more positive outcome for your case.
After attending the arraignment and pleading not guilty, a pretrial hearing will be scheduled. This hearing provides an opportunity for your attorney and the prosecutor to negotiate a plea agreement. If you decline to accept a plea agreement, your case will be scheduled for a bench trial. Mayor’s courts are not permitted to conduct jury trials. If you wish to have a jury trial, your case will need to be transferred to the Franklin County Municipal Court or the Fairfield County Municipal Court.
If you are found guilty at trial, the magistrate will impose a sentence. Your attorney and the prosecutor will make statements to the judge prior to the imposition of any sentence.
Transferring Your Case to Franklin or Fairfield County Municipal Court
Mayor’s courts are not able to hear certain types of cases, such as when the defendant wishes to have a jury trial, or you may prefer to have your case heard in Municipal Court. If you transfer your case from Canal Winchester Mayor’s Court, your case will be heard in Franklin or Fairfield County Municipal Court. If the Canal Winchester Mayor’s Court finds you guilty, you may appeal to the Franklin or Fairfield County Municipal Court.
Canal Winchester, Ohio Criminal Defense Attorney
If you have been charged with a criminal offense in Canal Winchester Mayor’s Court, contact Johnson Legal, LLC and speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Attorney David Johnson of Johnson Legal, LLC will discuss your case and assist you in fighting the charges. Call (614) 987-0192 or send an email to schedule a consultation regarding your criminal offense case.
Helpful links for Canal Winchester: Canal Winchester Parks and Recreation, City of Canal Winchester, Canal Winchester City Council, Canal Winchester Planning and Zoning
Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office
221 E. Main Street
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7900 (non-emergency)
911 (emergency)