Dayton Criminal Defense Attorney
Charged with a crime in Dayton? Rutan Law defends clients across Montgomery County — DUI/OVI, drug offenses, violent crimes, and more. Available 24/7.
Defending Clients in Dayton and Montgomery County
Dayton and Montgomery County have been significantly impacted by Ohio's opioid crisis, and local prosecutors pursue drug charges with particular intensity. The Montgomery County Prosecutor's Office has dedicated units for violent crimes and drug trafficking. Dayton Municipal Court handles misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, with felonies proceeding to Montgomery County Common Pleas. The relatively short distance from Columbus means Attorney Rutan can respond quickly when you need representation.
Attorney John P.M. Rutan travels from Columbus to represent clients throughout Ohio, including Montgomery County. With courtroom experience in dozens of Ohio counties, he understands the local prosecutors, judges, and procedures that affect your case outcome.
Montgomery County Common Pleas Court
41 N Perry St, Dayton, OH 45422
Common Charges We Defend in Dayton
Every case is different. These are the charges we most frequently defend in Montgomery County.
Drug Offenses
Dayton has been at the center of Ohio's opioid epidemic. Drug possession, trafficking, and manufacturing charges are prosecuted aggressively by Montgomery County.
DUI / OVI
Montgomery County OVI enforcement is active year-round. We challenge traffic stops, field sobriety tests, and breathalyzer calibration records.
Violent Crimes
Assault, robbery, and weapons charges in Dayton carry serious prison exposure. We build defenses that challenge the prosecution's narrative from day one.
Domestic Violence
A domestic violence charge in Montgomery County can result in a protection order, loss of firearm rights, and lasting damage to your family situation.
Theft and Receiving Stolen Property
Dayton courts handle significant volumes of theft cases. Felony theft convictions can close doors to employment and housing.
Record Sealing / Expungement
Many Dayton residents with older convictions qualify for expungement under Ohio's updated sealing laws. We handle the entire process.
Why Dayton 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.
Only 72 Miles Away
Dayton is just over an hour from Columbus. Attorney Rutan can be at your side quickly when it matters most.
Frequently Asked Questions — Dayton
How far is Columbus from Dayton — will Attorney Rutan come to my hearings?
Dayton is about 72 miles from Columbus — roughly an hour's drive. Attorney Rutan regularly travels to Montgomery County for client hearings and trials.
What are the penalties for drug trafficking in Montgomery County?
Drug trafficking is a felony in Ohio. Depending on the substance and quantity, sentences range from 6 months to 11 years in prison, plus fines up to $20,000. Mandatory minimums apply for certain drugs.
Can I avoid prison on a first-offense OVI in Dayton?
First-offense OVI in Ohio carries a mandatory minimum of 3 days in jail or a 3-day driver intervention program. An experienced attorney can often negotiate alternatives to incarceration.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and felony in Ohio?
Misdemeanors carry up to 180 days in jail. Felonies carry prison sentences from 6 months to life. The distinction affects your record, employment, and civil rights permanently.
Charged in Dayton? Call Now — Free Consultation.
The sooner you have an attorney, the better your options. Rutan Law is available 24/7.
Related pages