Drug Defense Attorney – Hilliard, Ohio

If you have been charged with a drug offense in Hilliard, 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.

Hilliard, Ohio – Where Will Your Case Be Heard?

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

Franklin County Drug Court – TIES Program

The Franklin County Common Pleas Court created the “Treatment is Essential for Success” (TIES) program for individuals whose crimes involved alcohol and/or drug use. The TIES program began in 2004 and offenders must meet the following requirements:

• 4th or 5th Degree Felony Offenders
• Non-violent charges and non-gun-related charges
• No significant history of violent crimes or drug trafficking
• Sufficient motivation for treatment
• Diagnosis of chemical dependency
• Defendant meets the criteria under sentencing guidelines for “presumption of probation”

The TIES program consists of three 12-week phases and a final 6-month period of probation. Each phases requires the completion of several tasks before the next phase is reached. Upon the successful completion of the program, the offender will be released from the program. This program was designed as an alternative to prison sentences, with the goal of rehabilitating individuals and reducing recidivism rates.

What Types of Cases Does Hilliard Mayor’s Court Handle?

Hilliard, Ohio has its own set of codified ordinances that describe certain drug offenses and the penalties upon conviction. Below are several examples of drug offenses under Hilliard’s Codified Ordinances:

• Possessing Drug Abuse Instruments
• Illegal Cultivation of Marijuana (less than 200 grams)
• Possession of Marijuana (under 200 grams)

Where is the Hilliard, Ohio Mayor’s Court Located?

Hilliard Mayor’s Court is located at 5171 Northwest Parkway, Hilliard, Ohio 43026. Consult the map below for further directions.

When are Hilliard Mayor’s Court Hearings Held?

Hilliard Mayor’s Court is in session every Wednesday, and defendants can sign in at 7:30 AM.

How do Mayor’s Courts Differ from Municipal Courts?

Mayor’s courts are unique in that they not permitted to conduct jury trials. Additionally, cases are heard by either the mayor or a magistrate appointed by the mayor. If a defendant wishes to have a jury trial, or simply does not want the mayor’s court to hear his or her case, the defendant can have the case transferred to the applicable county municipal court. In addition, if a defendant is convicted in a mayor’s court, he or she may appeal the conviction to the appropriate county municipal court.

There are advantages to having your case heard in a mayor’s court. For instance, mayor’s courts are more informal than municipal courts. Moreover, mayor’s courts are more conveniently located than a county municipal court and many provide evening hours for the hearing of cases.

Hilliard, Ohio Drug Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with a drug offense in Hilliard, 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 Hilliard, Ohio: Chamber of Commerce, Parks, Library, Fire Department, Police Department

Administrative Office  614.334.2140

Community Relations  614.334.2575

Detective Bureau  614.876.2429

Property Room 614.334.2336

Records 614.876.2429

Fax 614.876.1507