Legal Blog & Information

Are Police Scanners Legal in Ohio?

Police scanners have become more accessible than ever, from handheld radios to smartphone apps that stream live public safety communications. Because these tools are easy to obtain, many Ohio residents question whether listening to police radio traffic is allowed under state law. The short answer is that scanner use is often lawful, but certain circumstances… read more

What’s the Difference Between Getting Charged as a Juvenile Versus an Adult in Ohio?

When someone is charged with a juvenile crime in Ohio, a court must determine whether to treat the accused as a juvenile or an adult. This determination can significantly impact how the case proceeds and the potential consequences of a conviction. The difference between juvenile and adult charges affects more than just the courtroom setting…. read more

What Is Online Solicitation of a Minor?

The internet has made communication faster and easier than ever, but it has also led to new categories of criminal charges. One of the most serious is online solicitation of a minor, which involves using some form of electronic communication to contact, entice, or attempt to meet someone under 18 for illegal sexual activity. This… read more

Joe Suhre Named to Super Lawyers for 2026, 11 Years Straight

We are proud to share that Joe has once again been named to Super Lawyers for 2026, marking 11 consecutive years of recognition for his work in criminal defense, including DUI/DWI cases and serious criminal charges.Before earning this long-standing Super Lawyers distinction, Joe was first named a Super Lawyers Rising Star. Since that time, he… read more

Shoplifting Charges During the Holidays: Why Retail Theft Spikes in December

Every year, law enforcement agencies across Ohio report a noticeable increase in shoplifting arrests during the month of December. Factors such as crowded stores and financial stress create an environment that fosters poor decisions, which can lead to criminal charges.  Learning about why retail theft spikes during the holidays and how Ohio law treats shoplifting… read more

Suhre & Associates Secures Dismissal for Malik Stafford in High-Profile OWI Case

Read the full WEVV news story here. Our client, Malik Stafford, 24, of Louisville, was arrested on June 16, 2025, following a fatal crash on North St. Joseph Avenue in Vanderburgh County, Indiana.  Stafford was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated Causing Death (Level 4 Felony) and Operating a Motor Vehicle While Intoxicated… read more

Can You Appeal a Sentence if You Plead Guilty?

In Ohio, entering a guilty plea doesn’t always mean the case is over. While pleading guilty generally waives (with certain exceptions) your right to challenge the conviction itself, you may still have the ability to appeal the sentence the court imposed. This can happen if, for example, the judge made a legal error and issued… read more

What Are the Four Elements of a Crime?

Learning about how criminal charges work begins with the basic structure of every offense. Most crimes contain four core elements that the state (the prosecutor) must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. These include the criminal act, the required mental state, the connection between the act and mindset, and the link between the conduct and the… read more

Major Signs That a Person May Be a Sexual Predator

Being accused of a sex crime in Ohio is extremely serious. These charges can lead to lengthy prison sentences, lifetime registration as a sex offender, and lasting harm to your reputation and future. Because of what’s at stake, it’s essential to understand how these cases are handled and what types of behavior may lead to… read more

Can I Face Criminal Charges for a Car Accident in Ohio?

Most Ohio car accidents are handled through insurance claims and civil lawsuits, but some crashes can lead to criminal charges as well. The difference depends on the facts of the case, including whether the driver acted recklessly or otherwise violated the law. Learning about how these situations work is important if you or someone you… read more