Cleveland Criminal Defense Attorney
Charged with a crime in Cleveland? Rutan Law defends clients across Cuyahoga County — DUI/OVI, drug offenses, violent crimes, and more. Available 24/7.
Defending Clients in Cleveland and Cuyahoga County
Cleveland and Cuyahoga County have one of the busiest criminal court dockets in Ohio. The Cuyahoga County Prosecutor's Office is well-resourced and aggressive, particularly on violent crimes, drug trafficking, and repeat DUI/OVI offenses. Cleveland Municipal Court handles misdemeanor and traffic matters, while felonies proceed to Cuyahoga County Common Pleas. Bond hearings move quickly — having an attorney at your first appearance can make a significant difference in your release conditions.
Attorney John P.M. Rutan travels from Columbus to represent clients throughout Ohio, including Cuyahoga County. With courtroom experience in dozens of Ohio counties, he understands the local prosecutors, judges, and procedures that affect your case outcome.
Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court
1200 Ontario St, Cleveland, OH 44113
Common Charges We Defend in Cleveland
Every case is different. These are the charges we most frequently defend in Cuyahoga County.
DUI / OVI
Ohio's OVI laws carry mandatory minimums on repeat offenses. Cuyahoga County prosecutors rarely reduce first-offense OVI charges without strong legal pressure.
Drug Trafficking
Cleveland sits on major interstate corridors. Federal and state drug trafficking charges in Cuyahoga County carry severe sentencing enhancements.
Felonious Assault
Violent crime charges in Cleveland are prosecuted aggressively. We challenge evidence, witness credibility, and self-defense claims.
Domestic Violence
Cuyahoga County has a dedicated domestic violence unit. Even misdemeanor charges can affect housing, employment, and custody.
Weapons Charges
Carrying a concealed weapon without a license or having a weapon under disability are serious felonies in Ohio courts.
Theft / Robbery
From shoplifting to armed robbery, we defend the full spectrum of theft charges in Cleveland Municipal and Common Pleas courts.
Why Cleveland Clients Choose Rutan Law
24/7 Availability
Arrests don't follow business hours. Call or text any time and reach Attorney Rutan directly.
Aggressive Defense
We challenge every piece of evidence, every procedure, and every assumption the prosecution makes against you.
Statewide Experience
Rutan Law has represented clients in Cuyahoga County and dozens of other Ohio counties. We know the courts.
Frequently Asked Questions — Cleveland
Can a Columbus attorney represent me in Cleveland?
Yes. Attorney Rutan is licensed statewide and regularly travels to represent clients in Cuyahoga County. Ohio attorneys can appear in any county court in the state.
How quickly should I hire an attorney after an arrest in Cleveland?
Immediately. Bond hearings in Cuyahoga County happen fast, and the decisions made in the first 24–48 hours — including what you say to police — can shape your entire case.
What is the difference between Cleveland Municipal Court and Cuyahoga Common Pleas?
Cleveland Municipal Court handles misdemeanors and traffic offenses. Felony charges are bound over to Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court, where sentences are significantly more severe.
Does Rutan Law handle federal charges in the Northern District of Ohio?
Yes. Federal criminal charges filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio (Cleveland) require experienced federal defense counsel. Contact us immediately if you are under federal investigation.
Charged in Cleveland? Call Now — Free Consultation.
The sooner you have an attorney, the better your options. Rutan Law is available 24/7.
Related pages