Cleveland Coercion Attorney
We Have Experience with Both Sides of Criminal Cases
Coercion is a second-degree misdemeanor that prosecutors can use to put you in jail for up to three months. Even worse, coercion is typically charged with other criminal allegations. This means that presenting a strong defense may involve attacking the lesser charges directly in order to reduce the severity of the more serious charge.
Patituce & Associates thoroughly understands how prosecutors build their cases because we’ve been prosecutors ourselves. This unique perspective allows our Cleveland coercion lawyers to build strong cases for our clients.
Call (440) 771-1175 to speak with an experienced Cleveland coercion defense attorney for free!
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Coercion Charges & Penalties in Ohio
Coercion is the use of threats or unlawful leverage to cause a person to take action, or fail to take action, that would be their lawful choice. Under O.R.C. 2905.12, threatening to commit a crime, expose secrets about a person, or even speak ill of them in order to influence their actions is conduct that can fall under this statute.
According to O.R.C. 2905.12, depending on the other charges you’re facing, a coercion conviction could mean serious jail time, fines, and more. Coercion is rarely filed on its own. In fact, it is more likely to be an offense included in a larger indictment for crimes such as extortion or crimes related to organized crime rings conducting illicit business.
On its own, Coercion is a second-degree misdemeanor with a sentence of up to 90 days, but as part of a bigger prosecutorial strategy, proving that you engaged in Coercion can lead a jury to convict you of much more serious charges. That’s why the Cleveland coercion attorneys at Patituce & Associates are committed to helping clients just like you push back against these charges and protect your legal rights.
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The Role of Coercion in a Criminal Defense Case
In order for a confession to be admissible in court, it must be voluntary. Coercion involves using force or the threat of force to influence a person to do something. Sometimes, police officers or others involved in the criminal justice process may pressure a defendant to take a plea deal or confess to a crime they didn’t commit. However, coercion is illegal and is a criminal offense.
On the other hand, if you were pressured by the threat of violence to commit a crime, this also counts as coercion. The court should consider whether coercion was a substantial factor in the crime when determining your guilt. Depending on the situation, this could result in lessened or even dropped charges.
Forced confessions will be counted as inadmissible or impeached in court. If you were pressured into confessing to a crime you didn’t commit, our legal team can work diligently to determine whether coercion may be a possible defense for your case. On the other hand, if you were coerced into committing a crime, our Cleveland criminal defense lawyers can use evidence to build your case and represent you in court.
Defense for Coercion Charges in Cleveland, OH
At Patituce & Associates, we have guided numerous clients to successful legal solutions. If you have been arrested and charged with a crime, we will talk with you to determine your options. Coercion is illegal, and we will tenaciously represent you in court as you seek to lessen or drop the charges.
Call (440) 771-1175 or online to speak with our Cleveland coercion defense lawyers about your case. The sooner you pick up the phone, the faster we can fight for justice for you.
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- Martha L.
Seeking representation for federal charges against my husband led me to engage with an attorney from this firm. Swiftly connected with Joe Patituce, we made the decision to enlist his services that very day, a choice we're grateful for.
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- Cora B.
Their friendly and approachable team provided unwavering support. They worked diligently to build a robust defense, ensuring my side of the story was heard and considered!!!
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- Former Client
Cate Purdum was present, attentive, always returned my calls (I had attorneys before who never call you back), answered my questions and never ignored my calls. If I ever need an attorney in the future I will definitely go back to her.
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- Roberto M.
Catherine Meehan did an amazing job. Very responsive, friendly, and obviously very good with words. She kept me out of jail and home with my kiddo. For that I can't ever repay the favor. Much appreciated hope I never need your assistance again but if so I'll definitely give you a call. Thank you again.
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- Thomas S.
I am very satisfied with Rachelle and Joe they were talking me through my whole case and when I told them I wanted a trial they agreed and said let’s go to trial with out hesitation they were very professional and I couldn’t ask for a better law firm to have my back in my court case thank you Rachelle and Joe I highly recommend them to everybody
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- Levi G.
Joe helped my brother beat a serious RICO charge. He is simply the best criminal defense lawyer out there, and provides a clear-cut path to victory. I am extremely impressed and thankful for the hard work and dedication the team at Patituce & Associates put in on this case. It feels great to come out on the winning side, and not have to sweat a thing during the whole process. I highly recommend hiring Joe and his expert staff if you ever find yourself in any legal trouble. Thank you Joe!
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So kind and helpful! Don’t know what I would’ve done without him. Joe was kind and informative throughout the whole- Maddy P.
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- Glenn G.
I engaged Joe Patituce's services for my DUI case in Rocky River, and I couldn't have made a better choice. He and his team demonstrated excellence throughout, managing my case with remarkable skill and professionalism.
