Ohio § 2901.04
Full text of Ohio Ohio Revised Code § 2901.04, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 2901.04.
(A) Except as otherwise provided in division (C) or (D) of this section, sections of
the Revised Code defining offenses or penalties shall be strictly construed against
the state, and liberally construed in favor of the accused. (B) Rules of criminal procedure and sections of the Revised Code providing for criminal
procedure shall be construed so as to effect the fair, impartial, speedy, and sure
administration of justice. (C) Any provision of a section of the Revised Code that refers to a previous conviction
of or plea of guilty to a violation of a section of the Revised Code or of a division
of a section of the Revised Code shall be construed to also refer to a previous conviction
of or plea of guilty to a substantially equivalent offense under an existing or former
law of this state, another state, or the United States or under an existing or former
municipal ordinance. (D) Any provision of the Revised Code that refers to a section, or to a division of a
section, of the Revised Code that defines or specifies a criminal offense shall be
construed to also refer to an existing or former law of this state, another state,
or the United States, to an existing or former municipal ordinance, or to an existing
or former division of any such existing or former law or ordinance that defines or
specifies, or that defined or specified, a substantially equivalent offense.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio § 2901.04
What does Ohio Revised Code § 2901.04 cover?
Section 2901.04 is part of the Ohio Revised Code, the codified statutory law of Ohio. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Ohio § 2901.04?
A common citation format is "Ohio Revised Code § 2901.04" (Ohio). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Ohio law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Ohio official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Ohio attorney.
How does Ohio § 2901.04 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Ohio can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Ohio.