Independence Day is right around the corner. If you’re looking forward to celebrating by purchasing and using fireworks, be aware of the strict laws surrounding this activity. Otherwise, you could end up needing a criminal attorney to help handle the consequences. The following guide highlights the basics of Ohio’s pyrotechnics laws, so you can have a safe, fun holiday.

The Laws

Ohio is known for having some of the strictest regulations in the country regarding fireworks purchases. To start, you must be at least 18 years old to purchase consumer products. Previous to 2015, buyers were required to sign a contract that declared they would transport the fireworks out of the state within 48 hours of the purchase; this is no longer the case. State law prohibits anyone who doesn’t have an official license from storing, using, selling, or possessing non-novelty items. However, you may buy and use sparklers, smoke bombs, party poppers, glow worms, and other novelty pyrotechnics in the state.

The Penalties

Because of Ohio’s restrictive laws surrounding fireworks, the potential penalties are severe, but a criminal attorney can assist your case. In the case of a guilty plea or a conviction as a first-time offender, it’s considered a first-degree misdemeanor. You may be required to pay up to $1,000 in fines and could serve a maximum of 6 months in jail. In any successive offense, Ohio classifies the crime as a fifth-degree felony. If successfully convicted, you could serve up to a year of prison time.

If you’re facing fireworks-related charges and need a criminal attorney to represent your interests in the proceedings, contact Michael A. Newland Law Office in Hamilton, OH. This lawyer has over 20 years of experience advocating on behalf of his clients to ensure the best possible outcome. Visit his website to learn more about his services, and call this criminal attorney at (513) 887-9595 to schedule an initial consultation today.