Heather Rae Zilka, Criminal Defense Attorney in Columbus, Ohio

Heather concentrates on criminal defense, hoa, insurance, litigation, and personal injury. Each area below outlines the kind of case Heather handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• HOA

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• Insurance

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• Litigation

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• Personal Injury

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• Real Estate

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Heather's primary office is at 65 E. State St., Ste. 2000, Columbus, OH, 43215. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

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

Heather 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.

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

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

• Does Heather offer a free consultation?

  Heather charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Heather's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Heather'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. Heather gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Heather take my case if I'm outside Columbus?

  Heather 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 — Heather 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 Heather?

  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. Heather will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Heather accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

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