Fact-Checked: Why Trust Rittgers Rittgers & Nakajima Skilled Ohio Criminal Defense Attorneys
Last updated on September 16, 2025
Even if you have not been charged, if you are being investigated for a crime, you must contact an attorney immediately. Otherwise, you may be giving up important rights.
If you have been charged with a crime, your life is on the line. You need an experienced lawyer with the necessary knowledge and resources to defend your rights. The criminal defense attorneys at Rittgers Rittgers & Nakajima have more than 200 years of combined legal experience fighting for the rights of those accused of crimes ranging from murder to rape and other sexual offenses. From defense of adults to juvenile criminal defense, we have built a strong record of success in the Cincinnati area and across Ohio by providing each case with the attention it requires. We put our vast experience in cases ranging from aggravated murder to DUI to work for you.
If you’ve been arrested on criminal charges, it’s essential to talk to an attorney about your case before talking to investigators. To schedule a confidential consultation to discuss your case, contact criminal defense lawyers at Rittgers Rittgers & Nakajima by calling 513-496-0134.
Table Of Contents
Why Choose Rittgers Rittgers & Nakajima For Your Ohio Criminal Case?
When your freedom is on the line, you need a criminal defense team with a proven history in Ohio courts. Clients turn to us for:
- Decades of combined legal experience: Our attorneys bring more than 200 years of collective criminal defense experience in Ohio.
- Proven trial results: We have won numerous not guilty verdicts in high-stakes cases where prosecutors did not offer a plea bargain.
- Nationally recognized cases: Our defense work has included criminal matters that attracted national media attention.
- Client-focused defense: We devote personal attention to every case, developing strategies tailored to each client’s unique situation.
Our record shows that we do more than represent clients – we fight to protect their futures.
Our Ohio Criminal Defense Practice
Our criminal defense attorneys counsel and represent people facing criminal charges related to the following:
- Felonies and misdemeanors, including but not limited to homicide and murder, aggravated vehicular assault, assault, domestic violence, theft, robbery, burglary, arson, juvenile charges, vehicular homicide, and weapons charges
- OVI/DUI/DWI, or driving while under the influence of alcohol
- Traffic violations, including but not limited to reckless driving, hit and run, vehicular manslaughter, vehicular homicide, driving after suspension, speeding, and other traffic offenses
- White collar crimes, including but not limited to embezzlement, insurance fraud, bank fraud, and identity theft
- Sex offenses, including but not limited to rape, gross sexual imposition, unlawful sexual contact with a minor, sexual battery, pandering obscenity and other sex-related crimes and sex-related juvenile offenses
- Internet crimes, including but not limited to importuning, solicitation of sex, and child pornography
- Alleged offenses involving college students, including but not limited to disorderly conduct, drunk driving (DUI/OVI), underage consumption, sex offenses, drug possession, and burglary
- Drug crimes, including but not limited to marijuana possession and trafficking, drug trafficking, prescription drugs and drug-search issues
- Expungement, or sealing of a criminal record
- Forfeiture of assets
Our attorneys are leaders in the criminal defense field in Ohio, having held leadership positions in organizations, including president of the Ohio Criminal Defense Association. Over our years of practice, we have built a strong network of experts that we often use to help us analyze and investigate each case. We have handled cases in federal and state courts, including the Ohio Supreme Court.
Not Guilty Verdict
Young Woman Charged with Aggravated Murder and Other Felony Charges
Our client was facing a mandatory life sentence and accused of killing her newborn child and burying her in the backyard. The case involved a false confession coerced as a result of the controversial interrogation method known as the Reid Technique. More than ten expert witnesses were consulted / used in the case. The trial garnered national and international publicity after the prosecutor’s office told the public our client had admitted to burning and killing her baby. The jury was out a short period of time and found our client NOT GUILTY of murder and all the most serious felony charges.
Understanding The Ohio Criminal Justice Process
Navigating the criminal justice system can be confusing. Knowing what to expect helps you make informed decisions:
- Arrest and booking: Remain silent and request a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Do not answer questions without counsel.
- Initial appearance and bail hearings: The court sets bail and advises you of your rights. An attorney can argue for your release or lower bail.
- Preliminary hearings and grand jury (Felonies): Determines if there is enough evidence for trial.
- Arraignment and plea options: Enter a plea of guilty, not guilty or no contest. Your lawyer will explain each choice.
- Discovery and pretrial motions: Your lawyer exchanges evidence with the prosecution. Lawyers can file motions to challenge unlawfully obtained evidence.
- Plea bargaining: Your attorney may negotiate to resolve the case before trial.
- Trial: Involves jury selection, opening statements, evidence presentation and closing arguments.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your lawyer can argue for reduced penalties.
- Appeals: You may challenge a conviction if legal errors occurred.
One of our Ohio criminal defense attorneys will guide you through each step to ensure your rights remain protected.
Ohio Penalties For Criminal Convictions
The penalties for criminal charges vary depending on the offense and your history:
Misdemeanors
- Minor misdemeanor: $150 fine, no jail
- Fourth degree: $250 fine, 30 days jail
- Third degree: $500 fine, 60 days jail
- Second degree: $750 fine, 90 days jail
- First degree: $1,000 fine, 180 days jail
Felonies
- Fifth degree: $2,500 fine, six to 12 months prison
- Fourth degree: $5,000 fine, six to 18 months prison
- Third degree: $10,000 fine, nine months to five years prison
- Second degree: $15,000 fine, two to eight years prison
- First degree: $20,000 fine, three to 11 years prison
- Murder: 15 years to life without parole
- Aggravated murder: Life with parole after 20 years to death penalty
Beyond jail or prison, convictions can lead to loss of voting rights, gun rights, housing options, scholarships, professional licenses and employment opportunities.
What Should You Do If Police Arrest You In Ohio?
The actions you take right after an arrest can shape your defense. Follow these steps:
- Remain silent: Do not speak to police. Clearly state that you want a lawyer.
- Request an attorney: Avoid signing documents or answering questions without counsel.
- Do not resist arrest: Stay calm to avoid additional criminal charges.
- Pay attention to details: Record what happened and when.
- Understand your rights: You have constitutional protections under criminal law.
- Contact a lawyer promptly: Legal representation from an Ohio criminal defense attorney is critical.
Acting quickly gives your lawyer the best chance to protect your rights and future.
Why Should I Hire A Criminal Defense Attorney?
You have the right to work with a free public defender if you have been charged with a crime, assuming you meet the financial guidelines. However, this is not always the best strategy for your defense. Public defenders, though highly skilled, have hundreds of cases to manage at one time and cannot always give you their undivided attention. The prosecutor’s office also puts heavy pressure on them to make a plea bargain, even if a trial is better for you.
If you hire a private lawyer, you can expect to receive dedicated attention and outstanding client service. Your attorney will proceed to trial if it gives you a better chance at a positive outcome, and you will have better peace of mind knowing that you did everything in your power to put up a strong defense.
Big-City Capabilities • Small-Town Focus
Using our vast network of resources and our years of experience, we apply our skill and knowledge to handle your case in a professional and personal manner. The attorneys at our Cincinnati, Lebanon and Oxford offices take the time to get to know you and your case. We will take all the steps necessary to protect your rights and your future.
Protect Your Rights With Experienced Ohio Criminal Defense Representation
The sooner you involve an attorney, the more options you may have for building a strong defense. Our team at Rittgers Rittgers & Nakajima is ready to review your case, explain your legal options and stand by you through every stage of the criminal justice process. Whether you are under investigation or facing serious criminal charges, acting quickly can make a difference.
Call us today at 513-496-0134 or fill out our contact form to arrange a confidential consultation with an Ohio criminal defense lawyer.
Client Review: 5/5 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I was very pleased with my service from Rittgers and Rittgers. I worked with Neal Schuett and he made sure to explain everything to me as simply as possible. While maintaining professional at all times, he provided a comfortable presence to answer any questions that I had. Not only does he have incredible knowledge about the law and criminal defense, but he makes sure that everything he does is in the best interest of his client. Neal was able to resolve my issue quickly and efficiently. I would strongly recommend Neal and his associates to anyone in the Oxford area who is looking for an attorney.” – Maggie O.
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