Does the state have mandatory minimum sentences? Yes. Click here to see the Ohio Criminal Sentencing Commission's list of drug sentencing laws, including mandatory minimums, current as of 2007.
Does the state have a sentencing commission? Yes, the Ohio Criminal Sentencing Commission.
Does the state have sentencing guidelines? Yes. Ohio’s sentencing guidelines are statutory and have been codifed at Chapter 2929 of Title 29 of the Ohio Revised Code. Click here to read them. You can also read the Sentencing Commission's Felony Sentencing Table and Felony Sentencing Quick Guide to get a better sense of how Ohio's sentencing system works.
If yes, are the sentencing guidelines voluntary/advisory or mandatory? Voluntary/advisory.
Does the state have drug courts? Yes. Click here to learn more.
Reports
Justice Reinvestment in Ohio: Reducing Spending on Corrections and Reinvesting in Strategies to Increase Public Safety (2009, The Council of State Governments)
Helpful links
Governor John Kasich
Ohio Department of Corrections
Ohio Parole Board
Ohio Executive Clemency (pardons and commutations): Handled by the Ohio Parole Board.
Ohio General Assembly (state legislature)
Ohio Court System
Ohio Drug Courts
Want help finding a lawyer in this state? Click here or contact the local association of criminal defense lawyers. You can learn more about how to work with an attorney by reading our answers to frequently asked questions.
Want to search this state’s laws? Click here
Want to find out how a bill becomes a law in this state? Click here
Want to find your state legislative representatives? Click here
Want to work on changing the laws in your state? Learn how through our Citizen Action Kit!
Sentencing/Criminal Justice Reform Groups in the State
ACLU of Ohio
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