Bellbrook Criminal Defense Attorneys: Protecting Your Future
We stand up for your rights regardless of the criminal charges you face. Contact us now to schedule a consultation.
50+
Years Combined
Experience
95%
Success
Rate
400+
Google
Reviews
Your Bellbrook Legal Advocates: Experience. Dedication. Results.
Gounaris Abboud was founded over 14 years ago, and we’ve been serving Bellbrook and Greene County residents ever since. Our Bellbrook attorneys bring over 50 years of combined legal experience to the table, and we’ve achieved over 1,000 dismissals in courts throughout Ohio, including the Greene County Common Pleas Court, Xenia Municipal Court, and Fairborn Municipal Court.
Our work has been recognized by Super Lawyers and Martindale-Hubbell, and our clients have given us over two dozen five-star reviews on Avvo.com. But what we’re most proud of is the personalized approach we take with every single client.
Our approach begins with a comprehensive consultation, during which we carefully review every detail of your case. We then develop a defense strategy specifically tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring each client receives individualized legal representation.
Secure Your Future
We fight for your rights when you face charges. Contact Gounaris Abboud 24/7 for a free case analysis.
Criminal Charges We Handle in Bellbrook, Ohio
Gounaris Abboud has experience representing clients charged with all types of crimes in Greene County, regardless of level or degree. Some cases we handle include:
Take Control of Your Defense —Get Your Free Case Evaluation Now
Our Bellbrook criminal defense attorney can preserve your legal rights, freedom, and reputation. Contact Gounaris Abboud today to learn how we fight for you.
Bellbrook’s Crime Rate
While Bellbrook enjoys lower crime rates than many communities in Ohio and across the nation, criminal charges still have serious consequences. While violent crimes are less common in Bellbrook (with a 1 in 1,476 chance), the risk of property crime stands at a concerning 1 in 172.
No matter the nature of the charges you face, having skilled legal representation on your side from the outset is essential for protecting your future. Gounaris Abboud combines local knowledge of the Bellbrook courts with statewide connections, providing the aggressive defense you deserve.
Understanding Criminal Defense Charges
While Bellbrook maintains lower crime rates than many Ohio communities, certain locations generate higher volumes of police activity and criminal charges. The Bellbrook Police Department responds to calls throughout the city, with retail corridors and major roadways accounting for the majority of arrests and citations.
High-activity locations for criminal charges:
- State Route 725 (Main Street corridor): The primary commercial artery through Bellbrook, particularly the downtown area and retail sections near the Xenia border, sees frequent traffic stops, DUI checkpoints, and shoplifting incidents at local businesses.
- Interstate 675: This major highway borders Bellbrook’s western edge and is heavily patrolled by the Ohio State Highway Patrol, resulting in numerous OVI arrests, speeding violations, and drug interdiction stops.
- Upper Bellbrook Road: Residential area where domestic violence calls and drug-related arrests commonly occur.
- Franklin Street downtown district: Historic downtown area with bars and restaurants where public intoxication, disorderly conduct, and assault charges often originate.
- Bellbrook-Sugarcreek Park District areas: Including Little Sugarcreek Trail and local parks, where underage drinking, drug possession, and vandalism charges sometimes occur.
- Surrounding township areas: Sugarcreek Township locations on Bellbrook’s borders, where the Greene County Sheriff’s Office makes arrests.
Our criminal defense attorneys understand how cases originating in these locations are investigated and prosecuted in Greene County courts, giving us a strategic advantage when building your defense.
The law divides crimes into misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanor charges usually cover a lower level or degree of more serious crimes.
Some common misdemeanors include:
- Simple assault
- Theft of property worth less than $1,000
- Vandalism and criminal mischief
- Possession of marijuana
Although misdemeanors are less severe, a court can still sentence you to up to a year in jail and thousands of dollars in fines. You will have a criminal record that could impair your ability to find employment or housing. You may also get disqualified from certain government aid programs. In many cases, Gounaris Abboud has provided people accused of misdemeanors with strong defenses that have resulted in positive outcomes and preserved their reputations in the Bellbrook area.
Employers, landlords, professional licensing boards, and the general public can see any convictions on your record. Only juvenile offenses may be sealed automatically from public scrutiny.
State law allows certain offenders to have convictions expunged or records sealed. Expungement means the conviction is removed from the person’s record. Sealing means the record is closed to the public, but the conviction remains on the record.
Certain offenses are ineligible for expungement or sealing, including:
- Sex crimes that require sex offender registration
- Violent felonies
- Crimes where the victim was a juvenile under 13
- First or second-degree felonies
- Violations of the driver’s license law
- Third-degree felonies if the offender has one or more additional felonies
We will prepare and file your petition for expungement or sealing with the court. The judge will set a hearing and notify the prosecutor.
Criminal cases involving Bellbrook residents are prosecuted through Greene County’s two-tiered court system. Unlike some nearby cities, Bellbrook does not have its own municipal court. The Xenia Municipal Court at 76 East Market Street handles all misdemeanor offenses, traffic violations, and preliminary hearings for Bellbrook cases, including DUI/OVI, drug possession, theft under $7,500, and assault charges. Felony cases are transferred to the Greene County Court of Common Pleas, 45 North Detroit Street, Xenia, for prosecution.
The Bellbrook Police Department (15 East Franklin Street) serves as the primary law enforcement agency, while the Greene County Sheriff’s Office (120 Ledbetter Road, Xenia) operates the county jail and patrols surrounding areas. The Ohio State Highway Patrol maintains a strong presence on I-675 and US-35, conducting DUI checkpoints and traffic enforcement. The Greene County Prosecutor’s Office, led by Prosecuting Attorney David D. Hayes (61 Greene Street, Xenia), handles all felony prosecutions. Our criminal defense attorneys maintain strong relationships with local law enforcement and prosecutors, ensuring effective representation throughout Greene County’s criminal justice system.
Gounaris Abboud’s Proven Legal Strategies
We use our five decades of experience, including work as former prosecutors, to employ a strategic, organized approach to analyzing your case and developing a defense.
First
First, we listen to your side of the story, including adverse facts, so we know exactly what happened. The facts will tell us the defenses we will use.
Next
Next, we gather evidence, including witness testimony and physical evidence. Although prosecutors have the burden of proof for the offense, we have the burden of proof for most affirmative defenses.
Finally
Finally, we tailor your defenses to your situation. We present them while negotiating a dismissal or plea deal. We also present them to a jury if your case reaches trial.
Why Choose Us for Your Criminal Defense
50+ Years of Experience
Our criminal attorneys have spent decades in Ohio courtrooms defending people just like you.
Local Knowledge & Connections
We work regularly with the Bellbrook Police Department, Greene County prosecutors, and local judges. Those relationships matter.
Personalized Legal Strategies
We don’t do one-size-fits-all defense. Your case gets individual attention and a custom strategy.
Former Prosecutor’s Insight
Some of our Ohio attorneys used to work for the other side. That gives us unique insight into how prosecutors build their cases and how to tear them down.
24/7 Availability
Arrests don’t happen on a convenient schedule. We’re here when you need us, day or night.
Compassionate Representation
We treat you with respect and understanding during what’s probably one of the most stressful times of your life.
The Defenders to
Stand Behind You
Nicholas G. Gounaris
Founding Partner
- With more than 20 years of experience Mr. Gounaris has successfully tried cases in Municipal, State and Federal Courts.
- In the past he’s acted in the capacity of prosecutor, magistrate and acting Judge. As such, Mr. Gounaris is able to understand legal issues from many different vantage points and that experience has proved invaluable in assisting his clients.
Antony Abboud
Founding Partner
- A seasoned lawyer and former prosecutor Antony “Tony” Abboud is named to the list of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by The National Association Trial Lawyers.
- He has also received a 10.0 “Superb” rating by Avvo, which is an attorney rating website recognized around the nation.
Our Success Stories
College Student Was Facing Rape and Sexual Assault Charges Pre-Indictment
Client received a diversion program and avoided any felony charges, prison and sex offender charges as Gounaris Abboud was able to begin representation prior to Grand Jury Indictment and was able to provide vital information to show discrepancies in the statement of the complaining witness
Testimonials
Jennifer Dailing
I can’t thank Nick Gounaris and his staff (Especially Kelsea Maxwell) enough for the help my son received. This office is very professional, kind, and nonjudgemental. They go above and beyond to help. When Nick tells you he will do everything he can to help your situation, he does!!! If I ever need an attorney, he will be the person I see without a second thought.
If I could give 10 stars I would!!! Thank you for all you do!!!!!!
Jennifer *
There are simply not enough stars to leave for Tony and his paralegal, Michelle. I found myself in a very scary and unfortunate situation (not something I had ever been in before), and Tony immediately reached back out to take my case. Michelle was so quick to respond and get answers to my many questions. My case was ultimately dismissed – and I can now move on with my life. I can not thank Tony and his team enough. If you are reading the reviews, trying to decide whether to retain this firm- DO NOT HESITATE!!!
Brenda Purdin
Tony and Michelle were great. I felt at ease from my first phone call and conversation with Michelle and Mr. Abboud. He was confident, friendly and reassured me that they would get the best outcome for my situation, and they did. I feel that they genuinely care about their clients and do everything they can to be our voice and represent us in the courtroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Criminal Defense
What should I do if this is my first offense?
Even first offenses are risky. Many charges, such as OVI, carry mandatory jail terms. Remain silent and contact a dedicated criminal defense lawyer.
What happens if I’m found guilty of a crime in Bellbrook?
The offense’s degree determines the sentence. Misdemeanors have a maximum jail term of one year. Felonies can result in lengthy prison sentences.
Do I need a criminal defense attorney for charges in Bellbrook?
Ohio law allows you to defend yourself. However, consider hiring a criminal defense lawyer whenever you face the possibility of incarceration. A lawyer can often negotiate a deal to preserve your freedom. Don’t face criminal charges alone. Contact us for a no-obligation consultation and experienced legal guidance.
What if I think I can handle the case on my own?
You should consult a criminal defense lawyer even if you think you can represent yourself. An experienced Bellbrook lawyer might have insights you have not considered.
How much does a criminal defense attorney cost in Bellbrook?
It varies depending on the complexity of your case. We offer free consultations and transparent pricing. Many clients find that the cost of good representation is far less than the lifetime cost of a conviction — lost jobs, lost housing opportunities, and lost freedom.