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Arrested or under investigation? (555) 210-8890
Criminal Defense · Columbus, OH

When your freedom is on the line, you need a relentless defense.

Halstead Defense is led by a former prosecutor who now uses that insight to protect the accused. We answer the phone day or night, and we fight to win.

Former prosecutor Available 24/7 No fee for the first consultation

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25+
Years of trial experience
1,000+
Cases handled
24/7
Availability
Ex.
Former prosecutor insight
The Halstead approach
Firm / office photo
Strategic. Discreet. Always prepared for trial.
A defense built to win

We know how the other side thinks, because we used to be them.

Before founding Halstead Defense, our lead attorney spent years as a prosecutor. That means we understand exactly how cases are built against you, and where they fall apart. We use that insight to find the weaknesses the state hopes you never see.

Every case gets prepared as if it is going to trial, because that is what earns the strongest outcome, whether your case ends in a dismissal, a favorable plea, or a verdict.

  • Direct access to your attorney, not a case manager
  • Honest assessments, never false promises
  • Trial-ready preparation on every matter
Defense areas

Serious charges demand serious representation.

We defend against a full range of state and federal criminal charges. If you are facing any of the following, contact us today.

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Why Halstead Defense

The advantages that decide close cases.

Choosing the right defense attorney is the most important decision you will make in your case. Here is what sets us apart.

01

Former prosecutor

We have sat on the other side of the courtroom and know how the state builds its case.

02

Trial-tested

Prosecutors negotiate differently with a lawyer they know is ready and willing to go to trial.

03

Truly available

You get a direct line to your attorney, and we answer when it matters most.

04

Straight answers

We tell you where you really stand so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Case results

A record of protecting our clients.

Charges Dismissed

Felony drug possession dismissed after we challenged an unlawful vehicle search.

Not Guilty

Full acquittal at trial on an aggravated assault charge carrying years of exposure.

Reduced to Misdemeanor

Felony DUI negotiated down to a misdemeanor with no jail time for a first-time client.

Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome in any future case. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts. The results described above are illustrative examples for this demonstration site.

Your attorney

Meet Marcus Halstead.

A former county prosecutor turned defense attorney, Marcus has tried cases on both sides of the aisle and understands the system from the inside out. Clients rely on him for candid guidance, meticulous preparation, and a willingness to take a case all the way when it is the right move.

He personally handles every client relationship at the firm, so you always know exactly who is fighting for you.

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MH
Marcus HalsteadFounding Attorney · Former Prosecutor
Client experiences

What clients say.

★★★★★

"He was honest with me from day one and never overpromised. My charges were dropped. I cannot recommend him enough."

Former client,drug case
★★★★★

"Answered my call at 2am the night I was arrested and walked me through exactly what to do. That calm made all the difference."

Former client,DUI
★★★★★

"Prepared, sharp, and completely on my side. He treated my case like it was the only one that mattered."

Former client,assault case

Arrested? Say nothing until you have spoken with us.

Anything you say can be used against you. Your first call should be to a defense attorney. Reach us any time, day or night.