Drug Defense Attorney – Galena, Ohio

If you have been charged with a drug offense in Galena, Ohio, it is important that you hire legal counsel. Contact Attorney David Johnson of Johnson Legal, LLC at (614) 987-0192 to review your case and discuss with you how to proceed. As an experienced and dedicated drug defense attorney, Attorney Johnson will be with you at your first court appearance (called an “arraignment”) and attempt to have the case dismissed. In the event that the drug charges are not dropped, a pretrial hearing will be scheduled.

Depending upon what the particular drug charge is, and where it is heard, negotiations will begin with the prosecutor and evidence will be gathered to support your defense. If negotiations fail to produce a favorable plea agreement, your case will be set for trial. At trial, Attorney Johnson will vigorously defend you. However, if you are found guilty, Attorney Johnson will seek all avenues available that will allow you to avoid prison or jail.

Galena, Ohio – Where Will Your Case Be Heard?

Depending upon the type and level of drug-related offense that you are charged with, your case will be heard in Delaware County Municipal Court or Delaware County Common Pleas Court. Misdemeanor drug offenses, such as marijuana possession and drug paraphernalia, will be heard in Delaware County Municipal Court. Felony drug offenses, such as drug trafficking and illegal drug manufacture, will be heard in Delaware County Common Pleas Court.

Where are the Delaware Courts Located?

Delaware County Municipal Court is located at 70 North Union Street, Delaware, Ohio 43015. Delaware County Common Pleas Court is located at 91 North Sandusky Street, Delaware, Ohio 43015. Refer to the map below.

Delaware County Diversion Program

In Delaware County, a pre-trial diversion program is available for certain drug-related offenses. The program is available to first-time offenders with minor misdemeanor violations for possession of marijuana and 4th degree misdemeanor use or possession of drug paraphernalia. In addition to having a qualifying offense, the prosecutor must confirm that the defendant is eligible and recommend that the defendant participate in the program. If the defendant is recommended for the program, the offender must do the following:

• Waive, in writing, the right to a trial and, if not represented by counsel, the right to be represented by an attorney;
• Agree, in writing, to pay a $150 fee for supervision services as well as other court costs; and
• Enter a guilty plea to the charge.

The defendant will have 90 days to complete the following:

• Complete a drug-education class and attend a drug dependency treatment program;
• Complete 20 hours of community service;
• Refrain from committing any other criminal offense;
• Submit to drug testing whenever directed to do so by the Diversion Manager, and agree that failure to submit or any positive test will result in the defendant’s removal from the program; and
• Pay the $150 supervision fee.

Following the 90-day period, the court will either approve the defendant’s request to withdraw the guilty plea and dismiss the case against the defendant, or enter the previously suspended sentence if the defendant has not complied with the requirements of the program.

Galena, Ohio Drug Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with a drug offense in Galena, Ohio, 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 possession of marijuana case.

Helpful Links for Galena, Ohio: Village of Galena, Parks, Library