CRIMINAL DEFENSE

BK’s defense attorneys have successfully represented area residents charged with crimes ranging from reckless operation to racketeering, to burglary, assault, and murder. If you’ve been arrested, contact the criminal defense attorneys dedicated to seeking and securing justice…

110+

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Life-Changing Consequences

Being charged with a criminal offense by local, state, or federal authorities can lead to life-changing consequences for both the accused and their families. Aside from the possibility of being imprisoned for months or years, being convicted of a crime could cost you your current job, your standard of living, your reputation, even your marriage and relationships with other family members and friends. And that holds true even if you are charged with and convicted of seemingly “minor” misdemeanors.

Betras Kopp’s criminal defense attorneys have successfully represented people charged with crimes ranging from reckless operation to racketeering, to burglary, assault, and murder and have fought for and secured justice for defendants in local, state, and federal court. When we walk into court prosecutors know they will be facing extremely well prepared, exceptionally knowledgeable legal professionals who have the ability, will, and the resources needed to exonerate our clients.

Why is it so important to hire a law firm with extensive resources to handle your criminal case?

Because law enforcement authorities and prosecutors work for the government which means they have nearly unlimited money and manpower they can use to build a strong case against you—no matter how long it takes or how much it costs.

Betras Kopp’s criminal defense team, which includes investigators who once worked in law enforcement and highly experienced attorneys, helps level the playing field. Our fundamental knowledge of the way in which police and prosecutors build a criminal case enables us to recognize investigatory errors, identify other suspects the police may have missed or ignored, and spot procedural mistakes or constitutional violations that can lead to dismissals and acquittals.

In addition to working with our investigators, Betras Kopp’s attorneys strive to make every defendant an essential member of the criminal defense team. This combination of outstanding investigators, expert attorneys, and actively involved clients is the formula for success that has enabled us to win case after case, year after year in local, state, and federal court.

If you are under investigation, are about to be charged, or have already been arrested, don’t delay, contact the criminal defense team that has the proven ability to protect your freedom and your rights:

Criminal Defense FAQs

What Should I Do If I Am About To Be Or Have Already Been Arrested?

Stay calm. Say nothing to the arresting officers with the exception of identifying yourself. Then immediately ask to be allowed to contact your attorney.

When Are The Police Required To ‘Read Me My Rights?’

In television and movies police “read a suspect their rights” as soon as they are arrested. This list of rights is known as a defendant’s “Miranda rights” and are named after the U.S. Supreme Court decision mandating that they be read to suspects when police plan to conduct a custodial interrogation. This means that the suspect is in police custody—they have been arrested and are not allowed to leave and are being questioned by law enforcement personnel.

Miranda rights include:

The Constitutional right to remain silent
You must be advised that anything you say can be held against you in a court of law
You have the right to legal counsel
You must be advised that if you cannot afford an attorney one will be appointed for you
You may have a lawyer present during interrogation

It is important to note that you have the right to remain silent at all times—even if you are not the subject of a custodial interrogation. If you are arrested, or even if police simply suspect you of a crime, say nothing until you have had the opportunity to talk to the criminal defense attorneys at Betras Kopp.

If I Retain Betras Kopp will I Be Able To Contact My Lawyer Whenever I Need Him Or Her?

Yes. All our criminal defense clients get cell phone numbers for their defense attorney — ensuring 24-hour access for the duration of your case.

Do All Criminal Cases Result In A Trial?

No. At Betras Kopp we strive to have charges dropped before trial. In some cases, we may recommend that a defendant accept a favorable plea agreement. But if it does become necessary to try your case in court you will be vigorously represented by your criminal defense attorney.

What Is ‘Bond’ And How Does It Work?

Courts always require some form of “bond” to ensure that defendants appear at court proceedings. Many defendants are not even aware that they are on bond because in most instances they are not required to make any formal payment or sign documents. That being said there are generally three types of bonds in Ohio:

Recognizance bond. This is little more than a promise to appear in court. In felony cases, a defendant is often required to sign paperwork as proof of the promise to appear. It is often referred to as a signature bond. It is important to note that prosecutors can file additional criminal charges for failure to appear on a recognizance bond. Courts may add financial conditions to a recognizance bond. For example, a court may impose a $5,000.00 recognizance bond. In this situation, the defendant is not required to post any money in advance. But the court can order payment of $5,000.00 if the defendant does not appear for court proceedings.
Appearance Bond. This is also referred to as a “ten percent bond.” A defendant is required to post funds with the court under this type of bond. At the end of the case, the court will refund the bond money (less expenses) if the defendant appeared as required. It is called a “ten percent bond” because it generally requires ten percent of the bond amount. For instance, if a court sets a $10,000.00 appearance bond, the defendant must post $1,000.00 (ten percent of $10,000.00) with the court to secure his appearance.
Cash or Surety Bond. The most costly form of bond is typically a “cash or surety” bond. A cash bond requires full payment of the bond amount to the court in advance. The full amount is then refunded, if appropriate, at the close of the case. A surety bond usually involves a bondsman. Bondsman operate like insurance carriers. They charge of “premium” and then post surety for the entire bond amount with the court. Bondsman typically charge ten percent of the bond amount for the premium.

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Life-Changing Consequences

Why is it so important to hire a law firm with extensive resources to handle your criminal case?

Criminal Defense FAQs

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