How much does it cost to hire Matthew for a criminal defense case?

Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Matthew walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

Does Matthew offer a free consultation?

Matthew charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Matthew's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Matthew's current terms during booking.

How long do criminal defense cases in Ohio typically take?

Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Matthew gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Matthew take my case if I'm outside Cincinnati?

Matthew is licensed in Ohio. Matters governed by Ohio law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Matthew will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

What should I bring to my first meeting with Matthew?

Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Matthew will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is Matthew accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

Matthew's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

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Matthew Thomas Ernst, Criminal Defense Attorney in Cincinnati, Ohio

Over 30 years of legal practice · focused on Criminal Defense, DUI/DWI, and Expungement · 4.8/5 rating from 1 verified client review

MemberatMatthew Ernst

Cincinnati, OH

Practicing criminal defense in Cincinnati since 1996.

30+: Years practicing
4.8 ★: 1 client review
1: Bar admission

Practices in

Criminal Defense DUI/DWI Expungement Family Law Federal Crimes General +5 more →

Are you Matthew Thomas Ernst?

This profile was built from public bar records and is still unclaimed. Claim it free to control your photo, bio, and fees — and get client inquiries sent straight to you.

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Quick answer

Matthew Thomas Ernst is a member based in Cincinnati, OH. The practice focuses on Criminal Defense, DUI/DWI, and Expungement. Matthew has over 30 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Matthew Ernst. Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 1 client review.

Based in: Cincinnati, OH
Experience: over 30 years
Known for: Criminal Defense · DUI/DWI · Expungement

Handles Criminal Defense, DUI/DWI, and Expungement matters from Cincinnati, OH.
Over 30 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with CV Notable.

Areas of practice

Practice areas handled by Matthew Thomas Ernst

Matthew concentrates on criminal defense, dui/dwi, expungement, family law, and federal crimes. Each area below outlines the kind of case Matthew handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Criminal Defense cases in Cincinnati, Ohio

Matthew takes criminal defense matters in Cincinnati, Ohio. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

DUI/DWI cases in Cincinnati, Ohio

Matthew takes dui/dwi matters in Cincinnati, Ohio. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Expungement cases in Cincinnati, Ohio

Matthew takes expungement matters in Cincinnati, Ohio. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Family Law cases in Cincinnati, Ohio

Matthew takes family law matters in Cincinnati, Ohio. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Federal Crimes cases in Cincinnati, Ohio

Matthew takes federal crimes matters in Cincinnati, Ohio. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Biography

About Matthew Thomas Ernst — Over 30 years of Ohio criminal defense experience

Matthew Thomas Ernst is a lawyer practicing criminal defense, juvenile, wills and 11 other areas of law. Matthew received a B.B.A. degree from University of Cincinnati in 1992, and has been licensed for 30 years. Matthew practices at Matthew Ernst in Cincinnati, OH.

Working with Matthew on a criminal defense matter

Who Matthew represents

Matthew reviews new inquiries case-by-case for criminal defense, dui/dwi, and expungement matters in Cincinnati and the surrounding Ohio area.

Credentials

Matthew Thomas Ernst's legal education and bar admissions

University Of Toledo
J.D. · 1996
University of Cincinnati
B.B.A. · 1992

Jurisdictions

Matthew's state bar admissions

Ohio
1996 · ACTIVE

Matthew studied at J.D. in University Of Toledo and B.B.A. in University of Cincinnati.

Law school and academic background

Matthew completed J.D. in University Of Toledo and B.B.A. in University of Cincinnati. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Matthew runs in Ohio is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Awards, publications, and recognition of Matthew Thomas Ernst

Matthew has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

CV Notable

Legal awards and honors

CV Notable.

Locations

Matthew Thomas Ernst's office in Cincinnati

Matthew's primary office is at 212 W. 8th St., Cincinnati, OH, 45202-1902. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Matthew Ernst

212 W. 8th St.

Cincinnati, OH 45202-1902

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Client feedback

Client reviews of Matthew Thomas Ernst — 4.8/5 rating from 1 verified client review

Every review below is from a verified client of Matthew. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing criminal defense attorneys in Cincinnati.

4.8

1 client review

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Matthew Thomas Ernst claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Matthew Thomas Ernst — what to expect in your first consultation

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Matthew usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Consultation formats and pricing

Matthew charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Matthew's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Matthew will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a criminal defense attorney in Cincinnati, Ohio

A short list to run through before you commit: How many criminal defense matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Matthew

Matthew discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every criminal defense matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Matthew confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Matthew's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many criminal defense practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Matthew Thomas Ernst

How much does it cost to hire Matthew for a criminal defense case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Matthew walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Matthew offer a free consultation?
Matthew charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Matthew's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Matthew's current terms during booking.
How long do criminal defense cases in Ohio typically take?
Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Matthew gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Matthew take my case if I'm outside Cincinnati?
Matthew is licensed in Ohio. Matters governed by Ohio law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Matthew will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.
What should I bring to my first meeting with Matthew?
Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Matthew will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Matthew accepting new criminal defense clients right now?
Matthew's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by Ohio residents in the last few months, answered by criminal defense attorneys like Matthew Thomas Ernst. Each link opens the full answer thread.

Can I negotiate a plea deal for a felony charge in Ohio?
I’m facing a felony charge in Columbus, OH, for theft after being caught in a store. I’m worried about going to prison and would like to know if it’s possible to negotiate a plea d
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · Ohio
How can I appeal a conviction for a DUI in Michigan?
I was convicted of a DUI in Detroit, MI, last year and am unhappy with the outcome. I feel like my attorney didn’t represent me well, and I’d like to know if there’s a way to appea
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · Michigan
What can I do if I’m wrongfully accused of robbery in Pennsylvania?
I was wrongly accused of robbery in Philadelphia, PA, after an incident at a store where I was simply shopping. The security footage proves my innocence, but the police arrested me
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · Pennsylvania
What should I know about plea deals for misdemeanor charges in Hawaii?
I received a misdemeanor charge for disorderly conduct in Honolulu, HI, and the court suggested a plea deal. I’m unsure if I should accept it or fight the charge. What should I con
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · Hawaii
What are the penalties for a DUI in Colorado after a second offense?
I received my second DUI in Denver, CO, last month, and I'm worried about facing harsher penalties this time around. My first offense resulted in a fine and community service, but
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · Colorado
What are the legal consequences of underage drinking in Massachusetts?
I’m a college student in Boston, MA, and I was caught with alcohol at a party. I’m concerned about the legal repercussions this may have on my record and my future job opportunitie
1 verified answer · Criminal Defense · Massachusetts

Areas served

Criminal Defense attorneys serving Cincinnati, Columbus and Cleveland in Ohio

Matthew handles criminal defense matters throughout Ohio. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified criminal defense attorneys in that community.

More counsel

If Matthew's intake is full or the fit isn't right, these criminal defense attorneys in Cincinnati handle similar matters. Every profile below is verified and open to consultations.

Matthew Thomas Ernst, Criminal Defense Attorney in Cincinnati, Ohio

Quick answer

Practice areas handled by Matthew Thomas Ernst