Board Certified Criminal Trial Attorney | Over 70 Years of Experience We refuse to lose

We personally tailor a defense for each case and aggressively fight against a system designed to convict you.

letter Our lead attorney is a board-certified criminal trial attorney
capital building We have over 70 years of combined legal experience
gaval Our attorneys have taken cases to jury trials over 200 times
hands shaking We are the firm that other attorneys, police, & prosecutors turn to

Toledo Criminal Defense Lawyer

At Patituce & Associates, we’re committed to presenting your side of the story persuasively and effectively in court.

Our sole focus is on defending people who are facing criminal charges in Ohio. Our team consists of three former Cuyahoga County prosecutors who are now dedicated to protecting the rights and interests of the accused.

Collectively, we have won thousands of cases and successfully navigated more than 200 criminal trials. Our Toledo criminal defense attorneys know the challenges our clients face as they confront the charges against them and aggressively explore every conceivable legal avenue toward a reduction or dismissal on their behalf.

Contact us for a free initial consultation with a Toledo criminal defense attorney at Patituce & Associates by calling 419-597-5849 today.

Toledo criminal defense team

Our Team has More than Three Decades of Experience in Your Corner

At Patituce & Associates, our team is committed to a personalized approach to criminal defense. We learn the stories behind each of our clients, what their unique circumstances are, and what their goals are as they face the accusations against them.

This has allowed us to build relationships with our clients and their families and ensure we effectively and thoroughly advocate for them during this uncertain time.  Clients throughout the Toledo area choose us for several reasons, including:

  • Over 70 years of combined experience
  • 1,000s of criminal defense cases won
  • Successfully handled over 200 jury trials including murder trial acquittals
  • Being the law firm other attorneys, police, and prosecutors turn to for help
  • Our lead attorney is a Board Certified Criminal Trial Attorney
  • Offering no-cost, confidential phone consultations and are available 24/7

Ready to start exploring your legal options? We’re ready to hear from you. Contact our Toledo criminal defense lawyers at (419) 597-5849 today.

Client Testimonials

five stars
“Patituce & Associates has been the best experience I have had with a law firm. I am happy with my settlement and the fact that they were able to get me released in just a few days - that is what I am most excited about. They are caring and listen every step of the way.”
Wendell Jones
five stars
“Patituce & Associates is one of the best criminal justice attorneys in the area. We had a family member who was facing charges and Patituce & Associates were able to help get them out of it. They are truly an outstanding law firm.”
KENNETH DRAPER
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We Serve all of Toledo, Ohio, and the Surrounding Areas

streetview of toledo criminal defense office

Our Toledo criminal defense law firm is located at 412 14th St., Toledo, OH, 44331. If you have a legal matter to discuss with us in the greater northern Ohio area, please contact us at a location that’s convenient for you. In addition, we serve the following neighborhoods within Toledo. 

Birmingham East Toledo Franklin Park
Old West End DeVeaux Westgate
Ottawa Point Place South Side
Scott Park Five Points Reynolds Corners
Beverly Warehouse District North River
Toledo criminal defense team
Case Results
results
State V. Tevin Biles
Not Guilty at Trial Murder/Voluntary Manslaughter/Felonious Assault We were able to prove that there was insufficient evidence to prove that our client was involved in the shooting. This resulted in a verdict of "not guilty" at trial.
results
State v. Beckwith, Cuyahoga County
Charges Dismissed Drug Trafficking Student charged with the manufacturing of ecstasy. No prior record. We aggressively represented client throughout the proceedings. Entered into treatment program geared towards complete dismissal of charges.
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State v. Brandon Betliskey
Not Guilty at Trial Attempted Murder/Felonious Assault At trial we demonstrated that the prosecution’s witnesses were unreliable and that some of the witnesses had even assisted in the assault. The prosecution had offered a plea of three to five years in prison.
results
State v. Boscarello, Cuyahoga County
Plea and Record Expunged Aggravated Theft Client was accused of stealing tens of thousands of dollars worth of property. We negotiated a plea to a misdemeanor. One year late the matter was completely expunged.
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The Patituce & Associates Attorneys Are Battle-Tested

toledo criminal defense attorney megean patituceBeing accused of or charged with a crime is, without question, a legal emergency.  Depending upon your circumstances and the severity of the charges, your reputation, career, family life, and freedom may hang in the balance.

With so much at stake, you need an experienced attorney at your side.   At Patituce & Associates, we have the experience, knowledge, and resources to help you mount the strongest possible defense.  We understand how important your case is and always dedicate the time and effort necessary to achieve the greatest outcome.

We take pride in that we are known for their fierce advocacy and rigorous defense of the Constitution. Our firm is well-versed in cases that involve felony and misdemeanor offenses, including federal crimes. We can help you with the following types of cases:

Our Approach To Criminal Defense: No Case Is Hopeless

toledo criminal defense team standing outside officeDepending on the nature of your case, you might worry that even the best lawyer can’t help. However, whether you face a felony or misdemeanor charge, you need to contact a skilled attorney right away. At Patituce & Associates, we can show you how spending just 10 minutes discussing your case with a defense lawyer can greatly improve your situation.

Of course, this list is not exhaustive.  Through our decades of combined legal experience, our attorneys have handled cases involving a wide range of alleged criminal code violations — both at the state and federal levels.

Additionally, we can help clients even if they have already been convicted of a crime.  We have significant experience handling post-conviction issues such as challenging a conviction through writ of habeas corpus, filing a direct appeal, seeking clemency through commutation or pardon, and even expungement or record sealing.

Call Today for a Free Confidential Case Evaluation

dui defense lawyer associationIf you or a loved one has been accused of or charged with a crime, whether it be a misdemeanor or felony, you need to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.  At Patituce & Associates, our team of experienced criminal defense attorneys is standing by to listen to the facts of your case and begin building a strong defense.  We understand that this is a difficult, potentially frightening time in your life, but time is not on your side.

Call (419) 597-5849 or fill out our contact form to request your free, confidential case evaluation today.

joseph patituce
“The practice of criminal law is at the heart of what happens every day in our society. I started practicing criminal law as a way of helping people obtain justice for themselves and their families.”
Attorney Joseph C. Patituce

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Ohio?

resultsIn Ohio, both misdemeanors and felonies represent categories of crimes, but they differ primarily in terms of severity, potential penalties, and long-term consequences.

Misdemeanors are less severe criminal offenses, though they still carry significant consequences. Ohio classifies misdemeanors into five degrees, with the first being the most severe and the fifth being the least. For example, a first-degree misdemeanor might involve offenses like petty theft or certain DUI offenses, resulting in penalties of up to 6 months in county jail and fines up to $1,000. Conversely, fifth-degree misdemeanors are less severe and might result in smaller fines and less jail time.

Felonies are more serious offenses and carry stiffer penalties. Ohio categorizes felonies into five degrees as well, with the first degree being the most serious and the fifth degree being the least in terms of felonies. A first-degree felony, for instance, might pertain to crimes like aggravated robbery or attempted murder and could lead to penalties ranging from 3 to 11 years in prison and hefty fines. Fifth-degree felonies, although less severe than first-degree, still carry considerable penalties, which can include prison time.

In addition to immediate penalties, the distinction between a misdemeanor and a felony has long-term implications. A felony conviction can significantly impact an individual’s ability to find employment, housing, or even obtain certain licenses. It also affects one’s voting rights and ability to possess firearms.

Given the gravity of these consequences, it’s crucial to consult with a legal professional if facing either type of charge in Ohio, as the legal nuances and potential consequences can be complex and profoundly impact one’s life.

What is a plea bargain, and how does it work?

hands shakingA plea bargain is a negotiated agreement between the defendant’s attorney and the prosecution. This agreement typically involves the defendant agreeing to plead guilty to a lesser charge or to one of multiple charges in exchange for a reduced sentence, the dismissal of other charges, or other concessions from the state.

The plea bargain process can be intricate. It often involves weighing the strength of the evidence, the potential penalties if convicted at trial, and the specific circumstances of the defendant. While plea bargains can expedite the legal process and provide a certain outcome, they also require the defendant to relinquish their right to a trial. It’s crucial to work closely with an experienced Toledo criminal defense attorney who can provide guidance on whether accepting a plea offer is in the defendant’s best interests.

How often will I be updated about my case’s progress?

resultsAt our firm, transparency and communication are cornerstones of our client relationships. We understand that facing criminal charges can be a distressing, uncertain experience. Therefore, we commit to providing regular updates at critical junctures of your case, whether that’s pre-trial hearings, negotiations, or changes in case strategy.
Beyond these systematic updates, we foster an open line of communication where our clients are encouraged to reach out anytime they have concerns, questions, or require clarifications. Our aim is to ensure you’re always informed and empowered throughout the legal process.

How soon should I hire a defense attorney after being arrested?

hands shakingEngaging a defense attorney promptly after an arrest is of paramount importance. The period immediately following an arrest is often filled with critical moments that can significantly influence the trajectory of a case. Having an attorney early on ensures that your rights are protected from the outset and that you can avoid certain pitfalls, such as self-incrimination during police interrogations. Your interests are paramount to us; as soon as you contact an attorney, we begin to take charge of your case by starting the process of building a robust defense strategy. Early legal intervention can also impact bail considerations, evidence preservation, and witness testimonies. In essence, the sooner you have a defense attorney advocating for you, the better positioned you’ll be to navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system.