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Parma, Ohio - Criminal & Traffic Defense
Your Trusted Parma, Ohio Criminal Defense & Traffic Attorneys
Mizak & Pacetti is a Parma law firm that handles criminal & traffic defense in Parma, OH, from OVI and traffic tickets to misdemeanor and felony charges. Partner Vincent Pacetti is a former Cuyahoga County prosecutor, our attorneys live in the community, and clients work with experienced legal professionals with no handoffs.
Mizak & Pacetti is a family-owned firm where attorneys live in the Parma community. Not a downtown Cleveland firm running ads in the suburbs.
No Handoffs
Parma clients work with experienced legal professionals at the firm from the first call through final resolution. No intake staff at any stage.
Experience From Both Sides
Partner Vincent Pacetti has seen from the prosecution side how charges are built and what the evidence has to show. Parma clients get that insight in plain language.
Criminal and traffic defense for Parma clients at Mizak & Pacetti is led by partner Vincent Pacetti, with attorney James Kashien also handling criminal matters. Both work from the firm's Parma office on Broadview Road, close to Parma Municipal Court, where most local traffic and criminal cases begin. Mizak & Pacetti's Google reviews describe its lawyers as professional and responsive and its office staff as knowledgeable and polite.
Mizak & Pacetti attorneys live in the Parma community. The first conversation is usually about the charge, the court date and what the paperwork says, so it helps to have the ticket, the complaint, bond papers or any court notice on hand. The firm also handles personal injury, divorce and custody, wills and probate, business law and cybersecurity, so a Parma family can bring more than one legal question to one local firm, under one roof.
Mizak & Pacetti's criminal defense lawyers represent people in Parma and the surrounding areas who have been arrested and charged with a crime, stopped for impaired driving or cited for a serious traffic violation. Being charged with a crime and pulled into the criminal justice system raises hard questions fast. Will I lose my license? Will this follow me at work? Do I need a criminal lawyer, or should I just pay the ticket?
Most Parma cases begin at Parma Municipal Court, in the Parma Justice Center on Powers Boulevard. That court hears traffic and criminal cases from Parma, Parma Heights, Seven Hills, North Royalton, Broadview Heights, Brooklyn Heights and nearby communities. Felony cases go to the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court. Mizak & Pacetti represents clients in both criminal courts.
A criminal defense lawyer at Mizak & Pacetti explains the charge in plain language, reviews the evidence and builds a defense strategy around the facts. Criminal and traffic defense at the firm covers:
Parma Municipal Court
Most Parma traffic and criminal cases start at the Parma Justice Center on Powers Boulevard.
Misdemeanors
Shoplifting, theft, disorderly conduct and many first-time charges, which can still bring fines, probation or jail time.
Drug Crimes
Possession, trafficking and paraphernalia charges, where how the stop and the search happened often matters most.
Violence at Home
Accusations that often come with a protection order affecting the home and custody while the case is open.
OVI and DUI Charges
Impaired driving arrests, including license suspension questions after a failed or refused chemical test.
Felonies
Assault, burglary, weapons and serious drug charges heard in the Common Pleas Court, where prison time is possible.
Traffic Tickets
Speeding, reckless operation and driving under suspension, where points can affect a license and insurance costs.
Record Sealing and Expungement
Help sealing or expunging older cases under Ohio law once the waiting period has passed.
Who Handles Your Parma Criminal Case
At Mizak & Pacetti, partner Vincent Pacetti leads criminal and traffic defense for Parma clients. As a former Cuyahoga County prosecutor, he has seen how charges are built and how evidence is weighed from the other side. He uses that background, along with his criminal defense experience, to explain the strengths and weak points of a case, whether it is resolved early or goes to trial. Attorney James Kashien also handles criminal matters at the firm, so Parma clients have a small legal team of defense lawyers at one office.
Vincent Pacetti
Partner — Criminal Defense · DUI · Divorce · Personal Injury
Vincent, a former Cuyahoga County prosecutor, is a skilled criminal law attorney with over 100 trials in Northeast Ohio. As private counsel, he handles criminal cases, juvenile matters, expungements, divorce, custody disputes, estate planning, personal injury, landlord/tenant issues, and more. Known for smart, aggressive, and cost-effective representation, Vincent is dedicated to achieving the best outcomes and protecting clients' rights.
Jason B. Mizak
Partner — Estate Planning · Business Law · Civil Litigation
Jason, a partner at Mizak & Pacetti, LLC, brings 18 years of experience in estate planning, estate administration, business law, and civil litigation. He specializes in preserving family legacies, managing estates, and resolving disputes. Jason also handles real estate issues, asset management, and business disputes within estates, providing strategic, empathetic legal solutions.
James Kashien
Attorney — Criminal Defense · Bankruptcy · Consumer Law
A dedicated and dynamic criminal defense attorney, James brings a unique perspective shaped by experience in a prosecutor's office, a consumer and bankruptcy law firm, and a general practice firm. Known for clear communication and client-focused representation, James ensures every client understands their rights and options.
Under Ohio's record sealing law, an OVI conviction generally cannot be sealed later.
Parma OVI and DUI Defense Attorney
Mizak & Pacetti defends Parma drivers charged with OVI, which is what Ohio calls a DUI: operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Impaired driving is a criminal charge, not just a traffic ticket. Even a first offense may carry jail time or a driver intervention program, fines, points and a license suspension, depending on the facts and any criminal history.
For a Parma driver, the license problem can start before the case is decided. A failed or refused chemical test can lead to an administrative license suspension at the time of the arrest. A criminal attorney at Mizak & Pacetti reviews each part of the case:
The reason the police officer made the traffic stop
The field sobriety tests and how they were given
The breath, blood or urine test and its records
Police reports and any dash or body camera video
There is another reason the charge deserves a careful look in Parma. How the charge is handled now may stay on a driving and criminal record for good. Vincent Pacetti brings insight from the prosecution side into how these cases are built and what the evidence has to show.
Parma Traffic Ticket and Reckless Operation Attorney
Mizak & Pacetti handles traffic tickets for drivers in Parma and the surrounding areas, including speeding, reckless operation, driving under suspension and other moving violations. A ticket can feel small next to a criminal case. Paying it, though, counts as admitting the offense, which may add points to an Ohio license and raise insurance costs.
For a Parma driver with a commercial license, a job that depends on driving or points already on the record, a single citation can matter a lot. Too many points can lead to a license suspension. Traffic convictions also generally cannot be sealed under Ohio law. A traffic lawyer at Mizak & Pacetti reviews the citation and may look for ways to limit the effect on the driving record, depending on the facts.
When a Parma client's license is already suspended, the firm can explain whether limited driving privileges for work, school or medical needs may be available.
Losing the ability to drive affects a job, the kids' schedules and daily life, so this question often comes first.
Under Ohio law, even a minor criminal conviction can still affect a Parma resident's job, school plans or professional license.
Parma Misdemeanor and Felony Defense Attorney
Mizak & Pacetti represents Parma residents facing lower level charges in Parma Municipal Court and felony charges in the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court. Ohio sorts most crimes into degrees, and in criminal defense law the degree shapes the possible penalties.
Misdemeanors, such as petty theft, shoplifting, disorderly conduct and many first-time charges, may bring fines, probation or jail time.
Felonies, such as assault, burglary, weapons charges and serious drug offenses, can carry prison time and a lasting record.
A smaller charge is still worth a careful look. In a more serious case, early choices about statements, bond and evidence can shape the options that remain later. A criminal defense attorney at Mizak & Pacetti explains where a charge falls and what comes next, and starts to prepare a defense early. The firm handles these criminal defense cases at every stage, from arraignment to trial.
Parma Drug Charge and Domestic Violence Defense Attorney
Mizak & Pacetti defends Parma residents charged with drug possession, drug trafficking and paraphernalia offenses. In drug cases, a lot can depend on how the stop by law enforcement happened and whether a search was lawful under the Fourth Amendment. The amount and type of substance and any prior record also matter.
Mizak & Pacetti's criminal defense lawyers also defend Parma residents accused of domestic violence. These cases move fast, often with a protection order that can keep a person out of the home and affect custody. A conviction for this offense generally cannot be sealed in Ohio, with a limited exception for the lowest offense level, so the early stage of the case matters.
When a case also touches a divorce or custody question, Vincent Pacetti handles divorce and custody work, so one local firm can handle both sides of the problem.
A case that was dismissed or ended in a not guilty finding has no waiting period.
Parma Record Sealing and Expungement Attorney
Mizak & Pacetti helps Parma residents seal or expunge old criminal records under Ohio Revised Code 2953.32. A sealed record is not destroyed, but most employers, housing providers and members of the public can no longer see it. An expunged record is permanently deleted, with narrow exceptions.
For Parma clients, the waiting period runs from final discharge, meaning jail or probation is finished and fines and restitution are paid. As summarized in 2025 record sealing guidance from the county public defender's office:
Most misdemeanors: 1 year to seal or expunge (6 months for a minor misdemeanor)
Fourth and fifth degree felonies: 1 year to seal, 11 years to expunge
Third degree felonies: 3 years to seal, 13 years to expunge
Some records cannot be sealed at all, including OVI and most traffic convictions, first and second degree felonies, and felony offenses of violence. Mizak & Pacetti reviews whether a Parma client's record may qualify and walks them through the filing process in plain language. Vincent Pacetti also handles juvenile matters for Parma families.
What Happens After a Criminal Charge in Parma
Mizak & Pacetti explains each step to Parma clients facing criminal charges from the first call, because the criminal justice process can feel confusing from the outside. Most cases follow these steps:
Arrest or citation. Stay calm, be polite and protect your rights: do not discuss the case with police without a lawyer. Our guide on what to say to police in Ohio covers the basics.
Arraignment. The first hearing, where the charge is read and the defendant answers it. At Parma Municipal Court, criminal arraignments are heard in general session.
Pretrial. The defense reviews the evidence, including police reports and witness statements, and talks with the prosecution. Motions may challenge a stop or a search.
Resolution. A case may be dismissed, resolved by an agreement on the same or a reduced charge, or go to trial before a judge or jury. At trial, the state must prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt.
Sentencing and after. If the defendant is found guilty, the judge decides the sentence, and record sealing may be an option later.
Each Parma case is different, and the criminal process timeline depends on the charge, the evidence and the judge's docket.
— Practice Areas —
Full-Service Representation Under One Roof
Families and businesses in Parma have one trusted local firm for the legal matters that come up over a lifetime, from accidents and criminal charges to estate planning and small business counsel.
Business Law
LLC formation, contracts, vendor agreements, and commercial counsel for small businesses across the South Suburbs.
Mizak & Pacetti is a family-owned law firm where the attorneys don't just work in Parma, they live here. When people ask who the best lawyer in Parma is, they are usually looking for someone local, accessible, and trustworthy. Someone who returns calls, explains the process clearly, and stays involved from start to finish.
We provide hands-on legal representation for personal injury, criminal and traffic defense, divorce and custody, estate planning, business law, and cybersecurity and data protection matters. Our approach is practical, direct, and client-focused, not volume-driven or transactional.
Most of our work comes from referrals, not advertising. That trust has been earned case by case and neighbor by neighbor, and it's why so many Parma residents and small business owners turn to Mizak & Pacetti when the stakes are real.
Honored to serve Parma, Parma Heights, Cleveland, Seven Hills, Broadview Heights, Brecksville, Independence, North Royalton, Brooklyn Heights, and the surrounding areas.
listen Mr.pacetti is my five star pick!I would recommend mizak & Pacetti to anyone in need of legal representation.Mr.pacetti knows his stuff let me tell you and he will walk you through the entire process and explain everything , my gf has serious anxiety and normally would be a mess but vince made sure she knew every detail , every decision , and got us what we asked for no questions.He should be THE horseman! No cap! HE LOOKS LIKE A BOSS IN THE COURT ROOM, couldn't and wouldn't of wanted anyone else for our legal issues, Thank you Vincent Pacetti and thank you Mizak & Pacetti
If you are looking for the absolute best criminal defense attorney in Ohio, I cannot recommend Vincent Pacetti highly enough. His professionalism is truly top-tier, and his legal expertise is second to none. From start to finish, he demonstrates an exceptional level of knowledge, dedication, and commitment to his clients.
Throughout the entire process, Vincent was incredibly helpful, responsive, and informative every step of the way. He took the time to explain everything thoroughly, answer questions, and make sure I felt supported and confident throughout the legal process. His attention to detail, strategic thinking, and deep understanding of the law are unmatched.
What sets Vincent apart is not only his outstanding legal ability but also the way he genuinely cares about his clients and fights for the best possible outcome. He is professional, compassionate, honest, and relentless in his pursuit of justice.
If you are seeking legal defense representation, reaching out to Vincent Pacetti and his office is hands-down one of the best decisions you can make. I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone in need of exceptional legal representation in Ohio.
I had an excellent experience working with my lawyer, Vincent Pacetti. From start to finish, he made the entire process feel smooth, straightforward, and stress-free. He was highly professional, responsive, and truly took the time to understand my situation.
What stood out most was how efficiently he handled my case—everything moved quickly without sacrificing attention to detail. He advocated for me with confidence and skill, making sure my voice was heard and my best interests were protected every step of the way.
Thanks to his dedication and expertise, my case was resolved faster than I expected, and with a positive outcome. I’m incredibly grateful for his support and would highly recommend him to anyone in need of a reliable and effective attorney.
Mr Pacetti made understanding and navigating my case very simple and easy to handle, and we received a positive ruling in the end. Absolutely recommended.
Vincent was professional and very knowledgeable. He was able to connect very well with my teenage son & made him feel at ease during the whole legal process. He answered all my son’s questions and explained everything in “plain english” so my teenager knew what to expect and what was going on. Would highly recommend!
Mr pacetti was extremely diligent and punctual when it came to my case…he was very professional as well and I enjoyed our talks together…I would highly recommend his services…he helped me greatly
I had Vince Pacetti as an attorney. He was very personable and contacted me in a reasonable amount of time when I contacted him.I would recommend him to anyone who needs good attorney,someone who's listens to you and fights for you. Thanks Vince
Jason Mizak helped us with a dispute we were having with one of our contractors, and we couldn't be happier with how it turned out. He did an amazing job at communicating all of our options, keeping up the communication chains when they were non-responsive, and finding a solution that worked for us within our budget. We are very grateful for all of his time and effort, and we would absolutely work with him again in the future.
I have to make sure I let EVERYONE know about an amazing attorney!!
God sent us Vince Pacetti and he worked many long hours, many long days, many years and didn't give up. He goes above and beyond for his clients, he pushes for justice, he pushes to make sure the does everything possible for you.
He is the best attorney I have ever EVER EVER came across!! So if you are in need of an attorney please call him right away don't call anyone else!!
Vincent is our old neighbors son and he was fantastic and we also currently use Blake and him and the secretary are wonderful (and I am picky as I worked for 25 years in a major law firm in Florida previously). Would highly recommend and has to many friends and family
I am being represented by him Pacetti
And I called and the receptionist made it sound like I could not talk to him and I had to give her the entire details on why I needed to talk to him when he is my attorney and I had to have an appointment just to talk to them on the phone usually when you have an attorney and you need to talk to them You leave a message they call you back they don’t ask you 1000 questions on why you need to talk to him
I hope I can give him a five star but see
I cannot recommend Blake Benson enough. He was extremely professional, knowledgeable, and was committed to providing me excellent support and guidance. He was prepared and thorough during the entire process. I will absolutely contact him in the future if I need a stand-up, hard-working attorney. Thank you Blake!
Mr. Mizak is extremely friendly and very professional. My wife and I were very comfortable having him represent us. I highly recommend Jason Mizak for legal matters!
Mr. Pacetti just represented my son looking at a 17yr. sentence End result was he got 2yrs. GREAT REPRESENTATION, VERY PROFESSIONAL, AFFORDABLE.. Great lawyer Highly Recommended!!! Couldn't be more blessed for his services.. Mr. Pacetti is the way to go.. OUTSTANDING JOB!!! Thank you again
Both attorneys at this law firm are excellent - professional, timely and compassionate. I have used their services numerous times over the past few years and have never been disappointed. I also find their office staff to be knowledgeable and polite. Highly recommend!
We have had the opportunity to use Vince's services and both times he surpassed our expectations. Whether by text or by phone, Vince kept the communication channels open. You won't go wrong! Highly recommended!
Vince Pacetti was very reliable, honest, upfront and knowledgeable. Yes he is busy, but always made sure I got the answers I needed and was very patient. Highly recommend him and Jason for your legal needs.
Sat down and talked about a case involving my sisters kids. Was told that they were going to gather some information and contact me within a couple of days with a plan of action. It’s now been a month. I have emailed a couple of times and called and haven’t heard anything back. Cases involving kids should be high on the priority list. I live out of state so it’s not that easy for me to come up to talk in person and that’s what I did. Very disappointed that I have not heard anything back.
The team as a whole really did go above and beyond for my family and ensuring the best interest of my children. Brian Evans is a shark. Don't let the young look fool you, he embarrassed my ex-wifes attorney. Highly recommend this team as they got me exactly what I wanted out of the divorce and made it look easy.
Not a happy customer, feel like one lawyer brushed me off onto his partner and charged more than we spoke about in office so they could discuss case and charge more to the customer. Only had one contact with lawyer handling my case. I knew my case was not a slam dunk but I feel like they didn't care. I would never go back here because I feel like I was not taken care of my best interest as the client was not seen as such. My first time dealing with a lawyer and not the experience that I would recommend to anyone else.
Mizak & Pacetti is a Parma law firm whose attorneys live in the community and handle criminal & traffic defense with no handoffs. Vincent Pacetti, a former Cuyahoga County prosecutor, leads the practice with James Kashien. One local firm covers the other legal needs of Parma families under one roof, from divorce to cybersecurity. Call (216) 398-9870 or request a consultation to talk with a criminal defense lawyer about your charge or ticket.
Disclaimer: This page provides general information and is not legal advice. Contacting Mizak & Pacetti does not create an attorney-client relationship. Ohio Revised Code links go to Justia, a third-party site not affiliated with the firm.
Q: I was arrested for OVI in Parma. What happens next?
A: An OVI arrest is frightening, and many Parma drivers ask Mizak & Pacetti the same question the next morning. The case usually starts with an arraignment at Parma Municipal Court, and a license suspension may already be in place after a failed or refused test. A criminal defense lawyer at Mizak & Pacetti can review the stop, the testing and the reports and explain the options. Acting before the first hearing may leave more room to work with, depending on the facts.
Q: Is an OVI the same as a DUI in Ohio?
A: Many Parma drivers search for a DUI lawyer without knowing Ohio uses a different name. Ohio law calls the offense OVI, for operating a vehicle while impaired, and it covers alcohol and drugs. The penalties depend on the test result, prior offenses and the facts of the stop. Mizak & Pacetti defends Parma clients against OVI charges under either name.
Q: How can a criminal defense lawyer help after an arrest in Parma?
A: An arrest leaves many Parma families unsure what to do first. Anyone questioned in police custody has the right to counsel, and asking for a lawyer before answering questions is usually the safer step. A criminal defense lawyer at Mizak & Pacetti can review the police report, the probable cause for the arrest and any bond conditions. The firm can also explain what the arraignment will involve. Early help may preserve evidence and options during a criminal investigation, depending on the facts.
Q: Should I just pay my traffic ticket?
A: Parma drivers ask this all the time, and it depends on the ticket. Paying a ticket is an admission of guilt, which may add points to an Ohio license and raise insurance costs. For speeding well over the limit, reckless operation or any ticket that risks a suspension, Mizak & Pacetti may be able to help. Traffic convictions generally cannot be sealed later, which is worth knowing before a Parma driver pays.
Q: If I am offered a plea bargain, should I take it?
A: An offer can feel like relief or pressure, and many Parma defendants are unsure what to do with it. Whether it makes sense depends on the evidence, the possible penalties and what a conviction would mean for a license, a job or sealing a record later. A criminal defense lawyer at Mizak & Pacetti can explain what an offer includes and how it compares with a criminal trial. The final decision to accept belongs to the client, not the lawyer.
Q: What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Ohio?
A: Parma clients ask this a lot once a charge lands, and the gap between the two is large. A misdemeanor is a less serious criminal offense, such as shoplifting or disorderly conduct, and it is usually heard in Parma Municipal Court. A felony, such as burglary or drug trafficking, can carry prison time and goes to the Common Pleas Court. Mizak & Pacetti can represent Parma residents in both kinds of cases.
Q: Does it help that a Mizak & Pacetti attorney is a former prosecutor?
A: Parma clients often ask what that background means for their case. Vincent Pacetti has seen firsthand how charges are built and what the evidence has to prove. That experience helps Mizak & Pacetti explain the strengths and weak points of a case in plain language. It does not mean any special treatment from a judge or the state, and every case is decided on its own facts.
Q: Can I get my criminal record sealed in Ohio?
A: Many Parma residents carry an old charge for years without knowing it may qualify. Ohio law allows sealing or expungement of many misdemeanors and lower level felonies after a waiting period. OVI, most traffic convictions, most DV convictions and violent felonies are excluded. Dismissed charges and not guilty findings have no waiting period. Mizak & Pacetti reviews whether a Parma client's record may qualify.
Q: I was charged with domestic violence in Parma. What should I know?
A: This kind of charge can upend a Parma family's home life overnight. These cases often come with a protection order that can keep a person away from the home or children while the case is open. That record generally cannot be sealed in Ohio, with a narrow exception for the lowest offense level. Mizak & Pacetti reviews the facts, the alleged incident and the evidence for Parma clients facing these charges.
Q: How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Parma?
A: Cost is a fair question for any Parma family, and the honest answer depends on the case. A traffic ticket, a first impaired driving charge and a felony involve very different amounts of time and hearings. Mizak & Pacetti can explain how a specific Parma case would be handled before the work begins. Comparing what is included matters as much as comparing price.
A family-owned law firm serving Parma and the surrounding communities. Experienced legal professionals handling cases for individuals, families, and businesses across Ohio.
