Facing criminal charges can be difficult for anybody. However, a dedicated attorney at your side can help you regain your confidence and may make all of the difference in the world. An attorney serves an important role aside from defending your case in court and establishing reasonable doubt in the charges you face. They can help you from the very moment of your arrest, helping you avoid self-incrimination and ensuring that your interests are represented every step of the way.
Licking County Criminal Defense Lawyers
Brian Joslyn is a fierce advocate for men, women, and youth who are facing criminal charges in Central Ohio. His legal practice, Joslyn Law Firm, was established to help continue this mission of defending clients’ futures through proactive and aggressive legal strategies.
The Joslyn Law Firm has handled over 16,500 criminal cases, and our work has not gone unnoticed. We have been lauded as “Top Lawyer” by Columbus CEO magazine and awarded by the National Academy of Criminal defense attorneys as one of the “10 Best Criminal Defense Firms In Ohio.”
We have an impressive range of experience helping clients like you prevail throughout the Licking County court system, including a background of notable victories throughout multiple jurisdictions. We bring the same commitment to excellent legal representation for each and every one of the cases we take on.
The sooner you obtain experienced legal representation, the better your chances of successfully navigating the path toward an optimal outcome. Our focus is on helping you better understand the charges you face and the clearest path forward while effecting a robust defense strategy that supports your legal rights and best interests through every step of the legal process. To learn more, please don’t hesitate to reach out today.
Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Licking County
Every day, people in and around Licking County are accused of criminal misconduct. Whether it’s a violation of a city ordinance, traffic violation, misdemeanor, or a criminal charge, allegations of violating the law are serious matters that can lead to equally serious fines and penalties, which can have serious implications. The negative consequences of a conviction in any of these situations can reverberate into your future. The best path forward includes working closely with a resourceful criminal defense attorney who is very familiar with the Licking County court system, including the judges, staff, personnel, overall working tone, and the rules and customs therein.
The fact is that every court system is unique, and the more in-depth your defense attorney’s experience within that system, the better off you are. At Joslyn Law Firm, we have a close working relationship with all the courts in Licking County, and we are well prepared to help guide your case toward the best outcome possible.
At Joslyn Law Firm, we understand the difficulty of your situation, and we’re committed to effecting your strongest defense in support of your rights and your case’s most favorable resolution whether your case is in the Licking County Municipal Court, the Licking County Juvenile Court, or the Licking County Common Pleas Court.
Our Licking County Criminal Courts Information Guide
To help you better navigate and understand the Licking County criminal court system, we’ve organized the basic building blocks of helpful information according to the following outline:
- Licking County Criminal Charge Information and Overview
- Licking County Common Criminal Charges
- Licking County Penalties for Criminal Convictions in Ohio
- Licking County Warrants
- Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney In Licking County
- Licking County Criminal Defense Q&As
- Licking County Law Enforcement and Other Agencies
- Licking County Legal Resources
- Licking County Criminal News
- Licking County Court Locations and Contact Information
Whatever your general legal question or concern, these resources can serve as a reliable starting point. If you’re facing charges, however. It’s time to contact our office to talk about legal specifics.
1) Licking County Criminal Charge Information and Overview
Licking County is located in Central Ohio, and at the time of the 2010 census, its population was over 166,000. Its county seat is Newark, and the community at large has many things that make it a great place to live. There are varied and extensive hikes, orchards, and camping opportunities, just to name a few, in addition to impressive venues that support arts and entertainment.
As with any city, Newark (population 49,423 in 2017) sees its share of criminal activity, as demonstrated by the following crime rate statistics for 2018:
● 4 murders, which translates to 8.1 per 100,000 citizens.
● 35 rapes, which translates to 70.4 per 100,000 citizens.
● 34 robberies, which translates to 68.4 per 100,000 citizens.
● 79 assaults, which translates to 159 per 100,000 citizens.
● 485 burglaries, which translates to 976.1 per 100,000 citizens.
● 1,530 thefts, which translates to 3,079 per 100,000 citizens.
No community escapes crime entirely, and when criminal charges are brought in Licking County, they are tried in the following courts (in accordance with the charge):
● When the charge involves a juvenile (who is not charged as an adult), it proceeds through the Licking County Juvenile Court.
● When the charge involves a traffic citation, an ordinance violation, or a misdemeanor (with a few exceptions), it proceeds through the Licking County Municipal Court.
● When the charge involves a felony charge (against an adult or a juvenile who is charged as an adult), it proceeds through the Licking County Common Pleas Court.
If you or your child face any such charge, you need a criminal defense attorney who is not only experienced generally but is also experienced in the Licking County court system specifically. The difference between your attorney having an intimate working knowledge of the legal path ahead, including a close working relationship with the judge and courthouse personnel, can make a major difference in the outcome of your case.
2) Licking County Common Criminal Charges
Licking County has careful laws on the books that guide how criminal charges and cases proceed, and a conviction can lead to serious fines and penalties. Let’s take a closer look at the courts that make up the Licking County system.
Licking County Municipal Court
For traffic citations, ordinance violations, and most misdemeanors, your case will be heard in the Licking County Municipal Court. This court presides over wide-ranging charges that include:
- Licking County DUI
- Marijuana arrest in Licking County
- Probation violations
- Domestic violence arrest in Licking County
- Assault and battery
- Theft crimes
- Civil Protection Orders in Licking County
- Violating a civil protection order
- Failing to aid a law enforcement officer
- Failing to report knowledge of a death, crime, or a serious injury
- Making a false report or alarm
- Obstructing official business or otherwise obstructing justice
- Disturbing a lawful meeting
- Discharging a weapon within city limits
- Violating a noise ordinance
- Creating noxious and offensive odors
- Creating a landscape or weed nuisance
- Hunting animals within city limits
- Failing to control an animal
- Abandoning an animal
- Engaging in gambling, public gaming, cheating, or otherwise violating gaming ordinances
- Operating a charity raffle or bingo game in violation of existing regulations
In the scheme of criminal charges, these are relatively minor, but this does not negate the fact that they still pack a significant punch when it comes to fines, penalties, and social consequences.
Traffic Offenses Specifically
Because traffic offenses are the most common cases in the Licking County Municipal Court, it’s important to also take these charges into careful consideration. If you’re facing a traffic infraction, you’re facing fines only (no jail time), but more serious traffic-related charges can lead to jail sentences. Further, fines associated with an infraction can be prohibitive, and this is not to mention that you could also face license suspension. The most common traffic violations in Licking County include:
● Failing to yield the right-of-way
● Failing to yield to pedestrians
● Failing to stop at a stop sign or a red light
● Speeding by either exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for the road’s condition (including the effects of inclement weather)
● Following another vehicle too closely
● Drag racing
● Violating a one-way traffic directive
● Making an illegal turn
● Passing improperly
● Obstructing an intersection
● Crossing a divided highway
● Crossing a yellow line
● Passing a stopped school bus
● Violating a registration, tag, sticker, or title ordinance
● Driving with headphones
● Driving with an obstructed view
When the traffic offense is more serious, it can be elevated to misdemeanor status. Misdemeanors are also heard at the Licking County Municipal Court and include:
● Driving with a suspended license
● Driving recklessly or recklessly operating a vehicle
● Violating commercial driver’s license (CDL) restrictions
● Committing vehicular assault
● Leaving the scene of an accident (hit-and-run)
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
The charges of driving under the influence (DUI) and operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI) deserve a special mention of their own. These charges are common, and a conviction can have overarching negative consequences that complicate your life in myriad ways. Not only do you face time behind bars, license suspension, probation, and steep fines, there are also hefty, potential social consequences (due to the public nature of these records). A DUI conviction can:
● Limit your ability to procure a federal student loan in order to further your education.
● Lead to difficulties when it comes to renting a home or apartment.
● Lead to a decrease in your employment opportunities.
● Cause you to lose your professional licensure.
If your OVI charge is aggravated, you could face a felony. Felonies have even more serious consequences and advance to the Licking County Common Pleas Court.
Misdemeanor Charges
Misdemeanors are also tried in the Licking County Municipal Court, and they encompass a wide range of offenses that are divided into the following classifications:
● Minor misdemeanors
● Fourth-degree misdemeanors
● Third-degree misdemeanors
● Second-degree misdemeanors
● First-degree misdemeanors
The most serious among these is first-degree offenses, but even a minor misdemeanor charge can lead to formidable consequences that include a criminal record. If you’re facing a misdemeanor charge, in other words, you’re well-advised to bring your strongest defense.
First-Degree Misdemeanor Charges
While there are a wide variety of first-degree misdemeanor charges on the books, some of the most common include:
● Assault and battery – Assault and battery occur when a person makes a credible threat related to harming someone else via harmful contact or to actually having harmed someone else via harmful contact.
● Domestic violence – Domestic violence refers to having committed assault and battery (or something similar to this charge) against a member of one’s family or household, or against a significant other (either current or former).
● Criminal trespass – Criminal trespass refers to either entering a property or remaining on a property without having the necessary permission. The lesser crime of burglary may apply if the accused is not alleged to have committed any other crime in the process.
● Marijuana charges – Marijuana charges refer to the possession of an amount of marijuana that exceeds a legal threshold. If the accused has a prior conviction or was within a specific distance of a school, the charge can become more serious still.
● Possession of a controlled substance – The charge of possession of a controlled substance refers to possession of illegal drugs other than marijuana, including narcotics or prescription medication that don’t belong to the defendant.
● Possession of drug paraphernalia or drug abuse instruments – The charge of possession of drug paraphernalia or drug abuse instruments refers to the possession of those tools and instruments that are commonly associated with illegal drug usage. Such charges often supplement possession charges.
● Unlawful sexual conduct with a minor – Unlawful sexual conduct with a minor refers to having consensual sex with someone who isn’t old enough to consent (also known as statutory rape). While the majority of sexually-based offenses are felonies, in some circumstances, the charge of unlawful sexual contact with a minor is brought as a misdemeanor.
● Resisting arrest – Resisting arrest refers to engaging in the resistance or avoidance of being arrested or interfering in someone else’s arrest.
● Disorderly conduct – Disorderly conduct refers to engaging in actions (or an action) that inconvenience, alarm, or otherwise offend the public.
● Criminal mischief – Criminal mischief refers to engaging in specific criminal acts that can include things like deploying smoke bombs or tear gas, infiltrating someone else’s online domain, and more.
Licking County Juvenile Court
Typically, Juveniles are tried in the Licking County Juvenile Court, and they tend to face the following types of charges:
● Disorderly conduct
● Habitual truancy
● Vandalism
● Underage alcohol consumption
● Underage alcohol possession
● Possession of or use of a fake ID
● Operation of a vehicle without a driver’s license
● Underage operation of a vehicle while impaired (OVI)
● Possession, distribution, sale, or cultivation of drugs
● Theft
● Assault
● Sexting
● Gross sexual imposition
● Rape and sexual assault
● Domestic assault
● Probation violations
Juveniles who face more serious charges can be tried as adults, meaning their cases advance to the Licking County Common Pleas Court where they face the same legal processes and consequences that adults face. If your child is facing criminal charges of any kind, it’s too serious a matter not to work closely with a dedicated and compassionate Licking County criminal defense attorney.
Licking County Common Pleas Court
Before a felony charge can be levied against a defendant, the prosecutor must present the matter to a grand jury. The grand jury ruling will determine if a felony indictment will be forthcoming. If so, the case will proceed to the Licking County Common Pleas Court. Felony charges are extremely serious charges that necessitate zealous legal representation. Examples of common felony charges include:
● Drug charges – Drug charges refer to the possession of, the possession of with the intent to distribute, the manufacturing of, or the trafficking of illegal drugs.
● Weapons and gun charges – Weapons and guns charges refer to the illegal possession or use of firearms and other weapons. If such possession or use relates to the commission of another crime, it can increase the seriousness of the charge.
● Sex crimes – Sex crimes refer to acts of prostitution, sexual assault (including rape), child pornography, and more. Being charged with a sex crime, in and of itself, can lead to overarching negative social consequences.
● Theft and fraud charges – Theft and fraud charges refer to stealing an amount that reaches a specific financial threshold or when fraud is used to obtain assets that belong to someone else. The charge of robbery refers to a theft that involves violence or the threat of violence, and it is one of the most serious theft charges.
● Property crimes – Property crimes refer to acts that specifically target property that belongs to someone else, including burglary, arson, vandalism or property destruction, and robbery.
● Financial crimes – Financial crimes (often called white-collar crimes) refer to the act of defrauding another person or entity for personal financial gain, and they can include bribery, embezzlement, forgery, and more.
If you are facing a felony charge, your first call should be to Joslyn Law Firm at (614) 444-1900. We are proud of our impressive track record of successfully defending the rights of clients like you in the Licking County Common Pleas Court, and we’re committed to also bringing the full force of our experience and legal acumen to your case.
3) Licking County Penalties for Criminal Convictions in Ohio
If your charge ultimately ends in a conviction by a jury or the entrance of a guilty plea (taken under the experienced guidance of your criminal defense attorney), the sentence you will ultimately face is likely to be directly affected by the skill, knowledge, and fortitude of your criminal defense attorney. Sentencing is open to negotiation (outside of sentencing maximums), and your intrepid criminal defense attorney will assiduously advocate on behalf of a sentence that is the least harmful to you personally.
While there are sentence maximums, a judge will take the specific circumstances of your case (guided by your attorney’s well-honed defense strategy) into careful consideration before handing down your sentence.
The maximum sentence for each classification of misdemeanor is as follows:
● First-degree misdemeanor – A sentence of up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1000
● Second-degree misdemeanor – A sentence of up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $750
● Third-degree misdemeanor – A sentence of up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500
● Fourth-degree misdemeanor – A sentence of up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $250
● Minor misdemeanor – A fine of up to $150 with no risk of jail time
While misdemeanor convictions don’t have the legal weight of felony convictions, they can lead to many of the same social consequences as any other criminal conviction. In other words, you owe it to yourself and to your future to take a misdemeanor charge seriously.
If the charge you face is a felony, the maximum sentences are naturally weightier and include:
● First-degree felony – A sentence of from 3 to 11 years in prison (with significant potential enhancements for repeat violent offenders) and fines of up to $20,000
● Second-degree felony – A sentence of from 2 to 8 years in prison (with significant potential enhancements for repeat violent offenders) and fines of up to $15,000
● Third-degree felony – A sentence of from 9 to 60 months in prison (with significant potential enhancements for repeat violent offenders) and fines of up to $10,000
● Fourth-degree felony – A sentence of from 9 to 18 months in prison and fines of up to $5,000
● Fifth-degree felony – A sentence of from 6 to 12 months in prison and fines of up to $2,500
Juvenile Convictions
The sentences imposed by the juvenile court for criminal convictions tend to be less severe than they would be if the accused were adults (though the sentences remain serious). Additionally, juveniles are often subject to legal consequences that are specific to the juvenile court system. A conviction can lead to:
● Placement in the court’s custody or a care facility for delinquent children.
● Detention in a juvenile facility.
● Being placed under house arrest.
● Being placed in community control, which is very similar to adult probation.
● Performing mandatory community service.
● Being monitored, counseled, or treated for drug or alcohol dependence.
● A curfew.
● A suspended driver’s license or facing an extended waiting period before obtaining a driver’s license in the first place.
● Having one’s attendance at school monitored.
Again, when a juvenile is charged as an adult, they will proceed through the adult court system and face the same sentencing requirements that an adult would.
Diversion Programs in Licking County
The intent behind diversion programs is to resolve certain types of criminal charges without affecting the defendant’s criminal record. Those who qualify can sidestep a conviction via the successful completion of a diversion program, which often focuses on substance abuse rehab and probation. The benefits of completing a diversion program can be immense and can result in the court dismissing the case against you.
In Licking County, diversion programs funnel through the Licking County Adult Court Services Department, and the following prerequisites generally apply:
● You are willing to admit to guilt in the case (without actually pleading guilty to the charge in question).
● The alleged offense is your first.
● The alleged offense is a nonviolent crime that isn’t sexually based.
A diversion program can be a great option when applicable, but this doesn’t mean it’s necessarily the best option for you. An experienced Licking County criminal defense attorney will help you weigh your options and determine which direction is the best way to proceed. When it comes to criminal charges, defense strategies are far more nuanced than a one-size-fits-all approach, and finding the best path forward for you (given the exact circumstances of your case) is paramount.
Juvenile defendants may also have diversion programs available to them, and these proceed through the Licking County Juvenile Diversion Program (a facet of the Juvenile Court). Diversion is considered a privilege and is usually reserved for those juvenile defendants who are the victims of abuse or neglect or who suffer from chemical or alcohol dependency. Juveniles largely face the same hurdles that adult offenders do when it comes to qualifying for diversion programs. The juvenile diversion programs themselves generally require parental involvement and typically focus on individual counseling and treatment for substance abuse.
4) Licking County Warrants
If there’s a Licking County warrant out for your arrest, it’s a serious matter that needs to be addressed. Warrants are typically issued in one of two ways that include:
● A police officer petitioned a judge for an arrest warrant based on probable cause that the defendant committed a crime. Such a warrant can be used to arrest you immediately at your home or place of work, or can be held until you come into direct contact with the legal system (such as being stopped for speeding or running a stop sign).
● A judge can issue what is known as a bench warrant if you fail to show up for a scheduled court appearance, and this bench warrant can be implemented as above.
If you think that a warrant with your name on it may be out there, it’s time to consult with an experienced Licking County criminal defense attorney. Simply taking your chances is a terrible strategy. The social consequences of being arrested at work or in your home in front of your family are simply too serious not to be proactive.
The best road forward is to discuss the matter with the dedicated legal team at Joslyn Law Firm. We have the experience, skill, and legal insight to determine your next best steps and further explore your legal options. Ideally, this means having your warrant recalled. Barring this, turning yourself in under your defense attorney’s careful guidance can help mitigate the damage.
5) Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney in Licking County
If you’re facing criminal charges of any stripe in Licking County, you need a steady criminal defense attorney on your side. Finding such an attorney, however, may seem daunting. But keeping the following points in mind can help:
● Having a criminal defense attorney in your corner who is well acquainted with the ins and outs of the Licking County court system is always to your advantage.
● While the expense of hiring a criminal defense attorney may seem out of reach, it’s important to recognize that paying for experienced legal counsel in the short term can save you considerable expense and negative consequences in the long term.
● Even if you believe you are guilty of the charges you face as they stand, this does not mean that you should eschew legal counsel. The fact is that having dedicated legal guidance can help guide your case toward much less harsh consequences than you are likely to ever achieve on your own.
Your criminal defense attorney brings their experience, skill, and legal insight to the proceedings. They will carefully devise your most robust defense strategy, adroitly negotiate with the prosecution for a plea agreement that favors your best interests, and more. Moving forward without a formidable criminal defense attorney on your side leaves you far more vulnerable to unfortunate consequences.
An experienced and committed defense attorney will incorporate all of the following (as applicable) in their efforts to protect your rights and future:
● Insightfully investigating the details of your case, including all alleged evidence against you, all exculpatory evidence (evidence that supports your innocence), and any extenuating circumstances that may apply
● Determining whether your constitutional rights have been faithfully upheld throughout the legal process and leveraging any lapses in said rights to suppress any negative findings
● Determining if the prosecutor’s case holds water and has a sufficient amount of legally obtained evidence against you to support the charges
● Deftly negotiating with the prosecution for a sentence or charge reduction in exchange for a plea bargain
● Sincerely and skillfully advocating for the most favorable resolution of your case
The statement, you have the right to remain silent, is directly related to your right to have an attorney represent you. The truth is that the detective who questions you is adept at culling damaging statements from suspects, and you will be far better off if you look to an experienced defense attorney to guide your participation from this point on.
It’s natural to want to defend yourself and tell your side of the story, but the sole purpose of your right to remain silent is to help yourself by obtaining the professional legal counsel you need. It’s difficult to incriminate yourself if, instead of talking, you invoke your right to counsel.
6) Licking County Criminal Defense Q&As
Where will my case be tried?
The type of charge you are facing will determine where your case will be held. If the charges are against your child (a juvenile and being charged as a juvenile), their case will be held in the Licking County Juvenile Court. If your charge is less serious (relatively), such as a traffic or ordinance violation or a misdemeanor, your case will be tried in the Licking County Municipal Court. If you are facing a potential felony charge, the matter will first need to go before a grand jury in the municipal court. If the grand jury decides in favor of bringing the charge, your case will be heard in the Licking County Common Pleas Court.
Why is there a separate juvenile court?
Juvenile defendants have the same rights as adult defendants do, but the court’s focus is slightly different because they are juveniles. As a result, processes and procedures can vary. In a juvenile case, the judge will focus on rehabilitating the youth rather than punishing them with a sentence of detention (whenever possible). Sometimes, juveniles are charged as adults (usually when the charges they face are more serious). In these instances, they proceed to the common pleas court and face the same legal procedures and potential consequences that adults do. Whether tried as a juvenile or as an adult, your child has the right to legal counsel. Since the course of their future is at stake, working closely with an accomplished criminal defense attorney is well-advised.
Could my child serve time in jail?
Juvenile courts are geared more toward rehabilitation than they are toward detention. Nevertheless, some juveniles who are convicted of the charges they face are sentenced to a stint in a Department of Youth Services facility or a detention center (the juvenile equivalent of jail). If your child is being charged as an adult, they face the same sentencing requirements an adult would (if convicted). The important point here is that your child must be convicted before such a sentence can be levied, and this is exactly why you need a seasoned defense attorney in your corner.
Does my child need an attorney?
If your child is facing charges, they need an experienced criminal defense attorney. Having a criminal record has too many far-reaching consequences not to secure counsel.
My loved one’s been arrested. How do I find them in the system?
If your loved one’s been arrested in Licking County, one of the most reliable tools for locating them is on the Licking County Sheriff’s Office Website. This site will provide you with a wealth of information regarding the charges faced, visitation, phone calls, and more. A resourceful criminal defense attorney can help you not only locate your loved one but also remain abreast of their location and provide them with the professional legal guidance that is essential to effecting a favorable legal resolution.
Should I post my loved one’s bail?
If your loved one has been arrested and bail has been set, you want to do what’s best for them, and posting bail may seem like the obvious answer. However, the truth is that every case is as unique as the circumstances involved, and a dedicated criminal defense attorney will help you determine your best steps forward. For example, an attorney may be able to negotiate a reduction in bail or even the elimination of a bail requirement at your loved one’s bail hearing.
How do I obtain information about my own criminal charge?
You can find records related to your own case in Licking County Municipal Court on its Records Search page. If your case is in the Licking County Common Pleas Court, turn to its Court Electronic Records. Further, the Clerk of Courts in each courthouse can help you find what you need, and your experienced criminal defense attorney will always maintain up-to-date information about your case.
There’s a warrant out for my arrest. What should I do?
If you know that there’s a warrant out with your name on it (or have reason to believe it to be true), you could be arrested at any time (probably when you least expect it). Instead of living with this hanging over your head, consult with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney with extensive experience in the Licking County criminal justice system today.
Is there any way to clear my warrant?
Whether your warrant can be cleared or not depends upon the circumstances involved. You are very unlikely, however, to clear your warrant without the aid of experienced legal counsel. If your intrepid criminal defense attorney cannot clear your warrant (and the threat of subsequent arrest), they will help determine your next best steps. When it comes to a warrant, playing the odds is never a good idea.
Should I plead guilty to the charges I face?
Unless your well-informed and experienced criminal defense attorney advises you to plead guilty in the case before you, you are ill-advised to do so. While those on the side of the prosecution would like to convince you otherwise, pleading guilty (even if you believe you are guilty of the charges brought against you) can slam doors that you probably didn’t even know may have been open to you. Further, a criminal record can result in consequences that go far beyond your initial sentence, and while you may think you’re guilty as charged, this is not necessarily true. The short answer to the question of whether you should plead guilty is, “No, you shouldn’t.” Instead, you should work in tandem with your criminal defense attorney to determine the defense strategy that is most appropriate in your case.
7) Licking County Law Enforcement and Other Agencies
If you, your child, or your loved one is facing a charge in Licking County, the following contact information can be useful:
● Licking County Sheriff’s Office – The County Sheriff’s Office bears the primary responsibility of maintaining the local jail system and rehabilitating inmates. However, the Office also works to ensure peace in courtrooms, serve court orders, and assist with special operations (SWAT, search and rescue, K-9).
Randy Thorp, Sheriff
Emergency: 911
Main Office: 740-670-5555
Jail: 740-670-5501
Civil/Records Division: 740-670-5541
Civil/Impounds Division: 740-670-5543
● City of Newark, Ohio, Division of Police – The County Sheriff’s Office bears the primary responsibility of maintaining the local jail system and rehabilitating inmates. However, the Office also works to ensure peace in courtrooms, serve court orders, and assist with special operations (SWAT, search and rescue, K-9).
Erik McKee, Deputy Chief
Direct Line: 740-670-7923
Emergency: 911
Office Phone: 740-670-7200
● The Central Ohio Drug Enforcement Task Force (CODE TF) – The organization is comprised of 17 law enforcement and prosecution agencies from Coshocton, Knox, Licking, Muskingum, Perry, and Guernsey counties, and includes sheriffs’ offices, prosecutors’ offices, and police departments.
Central Ohio Drug Enforcement Task Force (CODE)
Licking County Justice Center
Lt. Paul Cortright
155 E. Main Street
Newark, OH 43055
740-670-5546
E-mail: pcortright@codetf.com
8) Licking County Legal Resources
If you or someone in your family has been charged with a crime of any magnitude, Licking County has wide-ranging resources available that can help you protect your rights and your future. Some of these resources are community-based, while others provide mental health or family services. These important resources include:
● Licking County Clerk of Courts – This website will provide you with a well-rounded overview of the Licking County Common Pleas Court.
● Office of the Licking County Prosecuting Attorney – The office of the prosecutor in Licking County is in charge of pursuing both adult and juvenile cases throughout the county.
● Licking County: About the County – This is where you can find out more about Licking County and what’s going on in and around the area.
● Map of Licking County – Take a closer look at your community.
● Crime Data for the City of Newark – This site provides an in-depth view of crime rates in Newark.
● Licking County Law Library – Head to the law library for detailed information about Ohio’s laws and legal system.
● Licking County Auditor – The auditor’s job is to preside as the fiscal officer for Licking County and its tax assessor.
● Licking County Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA) – The CSEA addresses county residents’ child support concerns and questions.
● Licking County Job and Family Services – This service agency can be an important resource for families experiencing issues related to childcare, healthcare, employment, and more.
● Licking County Chamber of Commerce – Licking County’s Chamber of Commerce is all about supporting the community by providing services and programs that promote business growth throughout the county.
● Mid-Ohio Psychological Services (MOPS): Licking County – MOPS in Licking County offers special services related to sexually abusive behaviors, behavior management with the developmentally disabled, therapeutic mentors, and psychological evaluations.
● The Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN) – RAINN is a national organization that provides support and resources for victims of any age who’ve been sexually abused.
Licking County Incorporated Communities
Alexandria, Buckeye Lake, Granville, Gratiot, Hanover, Heath, Hebron, Johnstown, Kirkersville, Newark, Pataskala, Saint Louisville, Utica.
Unincorporated Areas in Licking County
Amsterdam, Appleton, Ash, Atherton, Barrick Corners, Beechwood Trails, Boston, Brownsville, Chatham, Claylick, Cokesbury Corners, Columbia Center, Concord, Croton, Decrow Corners, Edgewater Beach, Etna, Fallsburg, Fleatown, Frampton, Fredonia, Fursville, Goddard Corners, Harbor Hills, Hickman, Highwater, Homer, Jacksontown, Jersey, Linnville, Lloyd Corners, Lock, Locust Grove, Luray, Marne, Millers Corners, Moreland Corners, New Way, Outville, Panhandle Corners, Perryton, Purity, Rain Rock, Reform, Scott Corners, Summit Station, Swans, Tilton Crossroads, Toboso, Tylers Corners, Vanatta, Wagram, Wilkins Run.
Licking County Zip Codes
43001, 43004, 43011, 43013, 43023, 43025, 43031, 43046, 43055, 43056, 43062, 43068, 43071, 43074, 43076, 43080, 43105, 43147, 43739, 43760, 43822, 43830.
9) Licking County Criminal News
A sampling of noteworthy and current news items in Licking County includes:
● Two Licking County deputies resign amidst allegations of neglect of duty that includes the destruction of evidence and missing reports.
● Crime Stoppers offers a $1,000 reward for any credible information related to a recent case of wallet theft in Licking County.
● Licking County’s COVID-19 cases recently increased by a full third over the span of one week.
10) Licking County Court Locations and Contact Information
If you have an upcoming court date in Licking County, the following contact information can be useful:
● Licking County Court of Common Pleas
Juvenile Court Division
1 North Park Place
Newark, OH 43055
For more information, visit their website or call the main office at 740-670-5624.
● Licking County Municipal Court
40 W. Main Street
Newark, OH 43055
For more information, visit their website or call the main office at 740-670-7800.
The court’s key personnel include:
Judge David N. Stansbury at 740-670-7842
Judge B. Matthew George at 740-670-7852
Marcia J. Phelps, Clerk of Courts at mphelps@lcmunicipalcourt.com
● Licking County Common Pleas Court
1 Courthouse Square
Newark, OH 43055
For more information, visit their website or call the main office at 740-670-5392.
The court’s key personnel include:
Beverly Adzic (Court Administrator
Don’t Put Off Consulting With an Experienced Licking County Defense Attorney
A criminal charge, from a misdemeanor all the way to a violent felony, is a hurdle that’s worthy of experienced legal guidance.
A conviction can negatively affect your life in ways you may not have even considered, including hefty fines, penalties, and social consequences that can have a ripple effect into your future.
The dedicated criminal defense attorneys at Joslyn Law Firm understand the serious nature of such charges and are committed to deftly employing their impressive legal experience along with their close knowledge of the Licking County court system in their determined efforts to protect your rights while aggressively advocating for your case’s most favorable resolution.
Our record of success at the Licking Juvenile Court, Municipal Court, and the Court of Common Pleas is our calling card, and we take great pride in helping clients like you prevail against pending charges. Whether you, your child, or another loved one is facing criminal charges of any sort in Licking County, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (614) 444-1900 for more information today.
Joslyn Law Firm | Licking County Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you or a loved one is facing a criminal charge, it’s important to do everything in your power to avoid conviction or stiff penalties. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can help you understand the steps that must be taken in order to give yourself or your loved one the best chance possible.
Call (614) 444-1900 to discuss the legal options and defense strategies available to you with criminal defense attorney Brian Joslyn