The Columbus Ohio Criminal Defense Attorneys of Heckert & Associates Co., L.P.A. are skilled and experienced in all aspects of criminal defense law. As a client, you will receive prompt personal service from an attorney whose job it is to help you. The attorneys of Heckert & Associates are firm believers that they are in a service industry, and that the attorney works for the client, not the other way around.

When you face a legal situation, you want a law firm committed to serving your needs. Heckert & Associates Co., L.P.A. is a law firm that will provide the immediate and personalized service one would expect from a friend. As a general practice firm dedicated to using their experience and knowledge of the law to serve the needs of the everyday person, Heckert & Associates Co., L.P.A. provides innovative and creative solutions for their clients.

Heckert & Associates is happy to assist you with EXPUNGMENTS, for which there is a $120 initial consultation charge.  All other legal matters include a FREE initial consultation in our office.

If you, or someone you know, has been charged with a criminal offense in the following Central Ohio counties:

• Franklin
• Delaware
• Pickaway
• Licking
• Madison
• Fairfield
• Union
• Morrow
• Knox

. . . and are in need of an attorney who will represent your interests zealously, contact the Columbus Ohio Criminal Defense Attorneys of Heckert & Associates Co., L.P.A. at  866-641-9975, or complete the attached contact information form to arrange for your free consultation.

What happens if I am arrested for breaking a criminal law?
If you are arrested for breaking a criminal law, the case is taken before a magistrate who may issue a warrant if necessary and set bond for appearance in court. If the defendant cannot post bond, he or she may be incarcerated pending appearance in court. If bond is posted, he or she will remain free pending appearance at an arraignment. An arraignment usually occurs within 24 hours of the arrest, or the first date available if on a weekend or holiday. The arraignment is held before a judge who formally tells the defendant the offense in which he or she is being charged, informs the defendant of their constitutional rights, and of the possible penalties involved. The defendant will enter a plea of guilty or not guilty at this time, bond may be reviewed, and a date for the next hearing will be scheduled.

Can police officers use force to arrest me?
A police officer may use as much force as necessary for a criminal arrest, as long as it is law abiding. After an arrest is made, a police officer may apply handcuffs to the defendant if the officer deems it necessary to prevent injury or escape. If the defendant claims an unlawful application of force was used by the arresting officer, a judge will hear the defendant's argument, and decide whether or not the force used was reasonable for the circumstances.

Will I be fingerprinted or have to be in a line-up?
If you are arrested, the police have the right to take your fingerprints and photographs. You may also be required to participate in a line-up, to provide a sample of your handwriting, to speak phrases associated with the offense, and/or to have samples of your hair taken. However, you may insist that an attorney be present during this time.