Ross J. Finke, Attorney at Law

02/22/2026

Ma*****na in Ohio.

02/12/2026

😳❤️

Darke - Greenville

Greenville PD is feeling the love in the air. Do you have a special ex that made a ruckus of your life and you want to give a pair of bracelets to?

01/27/2026

Is Ohio a Stop and I.D. State? Yes.

Section 2921.29 | Failure to disclose personal information.

Section 2921.29 states:

(A) No person who is in a public place shall refuse to disclose the person's name, address, or date of birth, when requested by a law enforcement officer who reasonably suspects either of the following:

(1) The person is committing, has committed, or is about to commit a criminal offense.

(2) The person witnessed any of the following:

(a) An offense of violence that would constitute a felony under the laws of this state;

(b) A felony offense that causes or results in, or creates a substantial risk of, serious physical harm to another person or to property;

(c) Any attempt or conspiracy to commit, or complicity in committing, any offense identified in division (A)(2)(a) or (b) of this section;

(d) Any conduct reasonably indicating that any offense identified in division (A)(2)(a) or (b) of this section or any attempt, conspiracy, or complicity described in division (A)(2)(c) of this section has been, is being, or is about to be committed.

(B) Whoever violates this section is guilty of failure to disclose one's personal information, a misdemeanor of the fourth degree.

(C) Nothing in this section requires a person to answer any questions beyond that person's name, address, or date of birth. Nothing in this section authorizes a law enforcement officer to arrest a person for not providing any information beyond that person's name, address, or date of birth or for refusing to describe the offense observed.

(D) It is not a violation of this section to refuse to answer a question that would reveal a person's age or date of birth if age is an element of the crime that the person is suspected of committing.

12/24/2025

Merry Christmas from Finke Law Office!

12/02/2025

🎁✨ Need your gifts wrapped during Midnight Gladness? Here’s something fun. ✨🎁

This Friday night a small group of volunteers will be doing gift wrapping for donations and everything raised will support The HERD. They’ll be set up at 123 S Main inside the Law Offices of Ross Finke and Molli Schleucher.

Drop off a gift while you shop and let them handle the wrapping. It’s an easy way to support a great cause and keep the holiday spirit rolling.

Want to learn more about The HERD and how you can make a difference? https://www.facebook.com/share/1BidduXzWt/

Holiday cheer and wrapped gifts all in one stop. 🎄✨

11/28/2025

The Thanksgiving holiday can prompt a review of one's will, especially after family gatherings that may highlight changing relationships, the addition of new family members like children, or new special relationships that might warrant adding or changing beneficiaries.

Why someone might change their will: Seeing family members together at Thanksgiving can highlight new relationships or dynamics, which is a common reason to update a will.

What to consider: After the holiday, a person might decide to add beneficiaries for new children or spouses, or change the distribution of assets to reflect different relationships.

Next steps: It is important to ensure the will's wording is precise to match any changes to your wishes.

Feel free to contact me at 567-890-7301.

11/13/2025

The most enduring traditions of the season are best enjoyed in the warm embrace of kith and kin.

11/10/2025

Ohio Expungement and Sealing of Criminal Records

The consequences of a criminal conviction extend far beyond the courtroom, affecting employment opportunities, housing options, and personal relationships for years to come. I leverage decades of criminal defense experience to help clients reclaim their future through Ohio's expungement and sealing procedures. Our proven track record includes successfully clearing hundreds of criminal records, enabling our clients to pursue professional licenses, secure better employment, and move forward without the burden of past mistakes.

Expungement vs. Sealing

While the terms "expungement" and "sealing" were once viewed as synonymous, they now refer to distinct legal actions with different implications for criminal records.
‍
The key difference between sealing and expunging an adult criminal record lies in how the records are treated and accessed. Expungement involves the complete destruction, deletion, and erasure of the record, rendering it permanently irretrievable. Once a record is expunged, it is as if it never existed, and no entities—including law enforcement and prosecuting attorneys—can access it.
‍
Conversely, sealing a record does not involve its destruction. Instead, the record is removed from public access and placed in a separate file that is only accessible to specific entities, such as law enforcement and prosecuting attorneys. While a sealed record is unavailable to the general public, it may still be accessed under certain circumstances, such as during future criminal investigations or prosecutions.

Eligibility Criteria for Sealing

To qualify for record sealing, the conviction must meet certain criteria. Generally, traffic offenses, most violent and sexual offenses, offenses involving a victim under the age of 13, first-degree and second-degree felonies, and domestic violence convictions (excluding M4 domestic violence) are ineligible for sealing.
‍
Additionally, the applicant's other criminal records, including any pending charges, may impact eligibility for sealing.
‍
A specified period must also elapse since the case was concluded before petitioning for sealing. The required time frames typically include: 6 months for minor misdemeanors, 1 year for other misdemeanors, 1 year for fourth and fifth-degree felonies, and 3 years for third-degree felonies.
‍
The court must determine that the applicant has satisfactorily rehabilitated and that the applicant's interest in having the record sealed outweighs the government's interest in retaining the record.
Eligibility Criteria for Expungement
Similarly, to be eligible for record expungement, the conviction must meet specific criteria. Generally, traffic offenses, felony offenses of violence, sexual offenses, offenses involving a victim under the age of 13, and first-degree and second-degree felonies—including domestic violence convictions—are not eligible for expungement.
‍
Sufficient time must elapse after a case is closed before you can petition for expungement. The typical waiting periods are as follows: 6 months for minor misdemeanors, 1 year for other misdemeanors, 11 years for fourth- and fifth-degree felonies, and 13 years for third-degree felonies.
‍
Additionally, a person’s overall criminal history, including any pending charges, may affect their eligibility for record expungement.
‍
The court must conclude that the applicant has been rehabilitated to its satisfaction and that the applicant's interest in sealing the record surpasses the government's need to retain it.

The Process

Eligibility Assessment: The first step is to evaluate whether you qualify for expungement or sealing. This assessment involves reviewing your criminal record and the specific statutory provisions that govern expungement and sealing in Ohio.

Application: If you are found eligible, I will file an application with the sentencing court. This application must include detailed information about your conviction and your reasons for seeking expungement or sealing.

Court Review: The court will examine your application to confirm that all statutory requirements are satisfied. A hearing may also be held, during which I can present your case.

Decision: If the court finds that you meet all eligibility criteria, it will grant the expungement or sealing.

The Ohio Criminal Sentencing Commission has provided a comprehensive overview of the expungement and sealing process, which can be found here:https://www.supremecourt.ohio.gov/docs/Boards/Sentencing/resources/judPractitioner/adultRightsRestoration.pdf

I have extensive experience with expungement cases. I'm committed to providing personalized legal services to help you achieve the best possible outcome. I will guide you through every step of the process, from determining your eligibility to representing you in court.

If you believe you may qualify for expungement or sealing of your criminal record, contact me today to schedule a consultation. Let me help you take the first step toward a brighter future.

11/08/2025

Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is incredibly dangerous. Drunk driving is a leading cause of serious and fatal car accidents in Ohio. As a consequence, law enforcement officers often target drivers who they believe may be operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or certain types of drugs.

The initial decision to stop a motorist on suspicion of driving under the influence is entirely subjective. In many cases, the decision to arrest and charge a person with this offense is also subjective.

More often than not, a driver who is stopped by law enforcement after consuming alcohol, particularly at certain times of the day or night, will be charged with an OVI/DU. This may happen regardless of whether they were actually under the influence per Ohio law at the time. If you are charged with OVI/DUI, the law and public opinion are not on your side.

Immediately after this occurs, courts can suspend your right to drive, impound or immobilize your vehicle, or require you to install an interlock device in your vehicle. Courts can also require alcohol testing as part of a pretrial bond, and impose other conditions, even before any finding of guilt or innocence at a trial. While it is possible to obtain limited driving privileges after an OVI arrest, navigating the court system can be daunting. That is why you need attorneys who know how to address these concerns and to give you the best chance for a successful resolution to your case.

Under Ohio law, a conviction for DUI/OVI can have serious consequences. Depending on the severity of the offense, a DUI conviction may result in jail time, fines, court fees, increased insurance rates, and a driver’s license suspension. There are a number of possible DUI defenses, which your DUI attorney may use to have the drunk driving charges reduced or even dismissed.

Based in Mercer County, I have experience in handling DUI/OVI matters.

Given the serious nature of DUI/OVI charges, it is vital to hire a defense attorney who has the experience to help you get the best possible outcome. I have first-hand knowledge of how these cases are handled from a law enforcement perspective. I’ll put my expertise to work on your behalf to protect your rights and your freedom.

10/29/2025

Indiana State Police troopers are taking to the passenger seats of semi trucks Wednesday to watch for aggressive and dangerous drivers across the state.

08/28/2025

Looking To Get An Early Release From Prison?

Judicial release refers to the process in Ohio whereby a person can be released from prison prior to the original release date. The terms used to describe the early release process vary from state to state. Ohio currently uses the term “judicial release” to describe the process which was formerly referred to as “shock probation.” Other states may refer to early release as “parole.”

In Ohio, early release from prison is governed by Ohio Revised Code § 2929.20, which is titled “Sentence Reduction Through Judicial Release.” An applicant can file a judicial release motion without an attorney; however, hiring a lawyer can give an applicant a greater chance for being accepted for judicial release.

Judicial Release Process in Ohio

There are many steps that should be taken before a request for a judicial release hearing is filed. It is important for each case to be researched and prepared prior to the hearing, because there will only be one judicial release hearing. Put another way, if the court denies the applicant’s request following a hearing, the applicant is not eligible to file a second judicial release request.

Prison History, Certificates of Completion, and Support Letters

The judge considering the judicial release will review the applicant’s prison record. The applicant should be prepared to explain any prison infractions. Most judges believe that a positive prison record indicates a higher likelihood of success on post-release control. As a result, a person’s prison record should be reviewed prior to filing a judicial release motion.

Prison records can be positive for applicants.

For example, if a person successfully completes a course in prison, the certificate of completion can be shown to reflect that person’s positive attitude and drive to succeed. All certificates of completion earned by the applicant should be collected.

Support letters from friends, family, and community members should be collected. An experienced attorney will provide instructions for people who are willing to provide letters in support of judicial release so that each letter is professional and effective.

Professional and Straightforward Judicial Release Motion

Most courts have large dockets. Judges are confronted with numerous motions each day. The judicial release motion should succinctly outline the reasons for judicial release and address the applicable statutory factors the judge will consider before ruling upon the motion. Experienced judicial release attorneys will advocate for judicial release in a straightforward manner, addressing all relevant legal factors.

In some cases, the trial and/or sentencing transcript should be reviewed prior to drafting the motion for judicial release. Photos and post-release plans may also be used to help bolster the chances of success.

Pre-Hearing Conference

The pre-hearing conference is one of the most important steps in the process for people applying for judicial release. Given that an applicant is only eligible for one judicial release hearing, it is imperative that the hearing has a high likelihood of success. Most judges will schedule a pre-hearing conference before granting a judicial release hearing. The criminal defense attorney and the prosecuting attorney will attend the conference. The applicant’s request and any potential state objections to early release will be addressed. At the end of the hearing, the applicant’s attorney should have a good understanding about the chance for success in the event a full hearing is conducted.

The Judicial Release Hearing

If the judge indicates a low probability for success at the full hearing, an experienced attorney will likely withdraw the motion and re-file it again at a later date. In the event judicial release appears likely, a full hearing will be scheduled. A judicial release attorney can help the applicant and family and friends prepare for the full hearing in the event testimony is required.

Experienced Ohio Judicial Release Attorney

If you believe you are eligible for judicial release, ask a friend or family member to contact a judicial release attorney who has a successful track record in judicial release requests. From my office in Celina Ohio, I passionately represent people who are eligible for judicial release throughout Ohio. Call 567-890-7301 to contact me today to discuss your eligibility and your options.

08/21/2025

Judge Frank Caprio, who went viral online and in his reality TV show for his empathetic rulings and sense of humor, has died. He was 88.