Wayne County Municipal Court

Wayne County Municipal Court

Providing a Strong Defense at the Wayne County Municipal Court

If you have a case being handled at the Wayne County Municipal Court, secure experienced legal representation as soon as possible. Patituce & Associates provides robust defense strategies tailored to your situation. Our team of attorneys is well-versed in the intricacies of the local court system and can help navigate the complexities of your case.

Criminal charges can have severe implications for your life. Our approach is meticulous and proactive, aimed at protecting your rights and minimizing the potential impact on your future. From the initial court appearance to trial, we can be by your side, advocating aggressively on your behalf.

Schedule a consultation with our team by calling us at (440) 771-1175 or messaging us online.

About the Wayne County Municipal Court

The Wayne County Municipal Court is a crucial judicial institution for the region. It handles various criminal, civil, and traffic matters.

The court is presided over by two distinguished judges:

  • Judge Michael W. Rickett
  • Judge Nathan R. Shaker

These judges are integral to maintaining the fairness and integrity of the judicial process at the Wayne County Municipal Court. Judges must have practiced law for at least six years before ascending to the bench. They are elected on a nonpartisan basis and serve six-year terms, during which they are tasked with facilitating fair trials, overseeing court hearings, and managing various administrative duties.

Each Case is Unique Each Deserves a Customized Defense Strategy Our attorneys understand that your specific situation requires individualized attention, and we are dedicated to providing just

Types of Cases Heard at the Wayne County Municipal Court

The Wayne County Municipal Court adjudicates various cases within its Criminal and Traffic Department. 

These offenses include misdemeanors, ordinance violations, and traffic or parking violations:

  • Misdemeanors: These are lower-level offenses under Ohio law but can still result in significant penalties. Misdemeanors range from fourth-degree, carrying a maximum sentence of 30 days in jail, to first-degree, with penalties of up to 6 months in jail. Common examples of misdemeanors heard in this court include domestic violence (Ohio Revised Code § 2919.25), assault (Ohio Revised Code § 2903.13), DUI (Ohio Revised Code § 4511.19), theft of property under $1,000 (Ohio Revised Code § 2913.02), and prostitution (Ohio Revised Code § 2907.23).
  • Ordinance violations: These charges are brought by the municipal government for violations of local rules and regulations. They are enforceable within the city’s boundaries. Typical ordinance violations might include excessive noise, curfew violations, criminal trespass, and disturbing a lawful meeting.
  • Traffic violations: Cases involving traffic laws and regulations infractions are also under the court’s purview. Examples include disobeying traffic control devices, speeding, driving on the wrong side of the roadway, and following too closely. 

In addition to misdemeanor cases, the Wayne County Municipal Court conducts preliminary hearings for felony charges. As outlined in Ohio Revised Code § 2937.12, these hearings are crucial steps in the judicial process, where the prosecution presents witnesses and evidence to establish probable cause. During these proceedings, the defense can cross-examine witnesses and challenge the evidence presented. If the court finds sufficient probable cause, the case is transferred to the Court of Common Pleas for further action.

Award-Winning Firm

  • Cleveland Top 10 Criminal Law Attorney
  • NBTA
  • Super lawyers
  • Best Lawyers
  • AVVO
  • Best Lawyers in America
  • DUI Defense

Do You Need a Criminal Attorney at the Wayne County Municipal Court?

If you are facing criminal charges at the Wayne County Municipal Court, the decision to hire a criminal attorney can impact the trajectory of your case. While self-representation may be tempting, the complexities of the legal system and the potential consequences of a conviction make professional legal representation indispensable.

A seasoned criminal attorney brings a wealth of experience and knowledge that is critical in navigating the nuances of the court’s procedures. They understand the local court rules and can meticulously craft every step of your defense to comply with these regulations. Self-representation, on the other hand, can lead to procedural missteps that could undermine your defense.

Your lawyer can build a comprehensive defense strategy. They gather evidence, interview witnesses, and scrutinize the prosecution’s case for weaknesses. An attorney’s ability to anticipate and counter the prosecution’s arguments is a significant advantage that self-represented defendants rarely possess.

    “A choice we're grateful for.”

    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.

    - Martha L.
    “Their friendly and approachable team provided unwavering support.”

    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!!!

    - Cora B.
    “Cate Purdum was present, attentive, always returned my calls.”

    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.

    - Former Client
    “She kept me out of jail and home with my kiddo.”

    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.

    - Roberto M.
    “I highly recommend them to everybody”

    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

    - Thomas S.
    “He is simply the best criminal defense lawyer out there.”

    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!

    - Levi G.
    “So kind and helpful!”
    So kind and helpful! Don’t know what I would’ve done without him. Joe was kind and informative throughout the whole
    - Maddy P.
    “I couldn't have made a better choice.”

    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.

    - Glenn G.

How Can Patituce & Associates Help Your Criminal Case at the Wayne County Municipal Court?

Patituce & Associates offers unparalleled legal defense for individuals facing criminal charges at Wayne County Municipal Court. Our team is led by a board-certified criminal trial attorney. This designation reflects high standards of legal insight and trial advocacy. 

Our team also comprises former prosecutors. This unique perspective allows us to anticipate the strategies used by the prosecution and effectively counter them. We bring over 70 years of combined legal experience, providing every client with a strategic and aggressive defense. With over 200 cases successfully taken to trial, we have a track record of pursuing favorable client outcomes.

At the Wayne County Municipal Court, we handle various criminal cases, including but not limited to:

Recent Case Results

Our recent successes demonstrate our commitment to working toward just results for our clients.

Some of our notable achievements include:

  • Not guilty of domestic violence: A husband accused of domestic violence against his wife was found not guilty at trial, preserving his freedom and reputation.
  • DUI dismissal: In a case where a client was accused of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, we successfully argued for dismissal, freeing the client from all charges.
  • Evidence suppression in DUI: When a client was stopped for an alleged illegal lane change, we challenged the investigative techniques. The trial court agreed, suppressing key evidence, which led to the dismissal of the case.
  • DUI appeal success: In another DUI case, after initial attempts to suppress evidence were denied, we appealed the decision. The presiding judge ultimately suppressed all relevant evidence, resulting in the dismissal of the case.

Choosing Patituce & Associates means choosing a team deeply committed to protecting your rights and future. With our extensive experience, strategic approach, and proven track record, you can trust that your defense is in the hands of skilled and dedicated professionals. 

Contact us at (440) 771-1175to discuss how we can assist you in your legal matter.

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