Will Nesbitt

Will Nesbitt is widely regarded for his experience, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of the accused. His record reflects not only courtroom excellence but also a deep understanding of Ohio’s criminal justice system — from local municipal courts to federal jurisdictions.

For his exceptional service in the field of criminal defense, Mr. Nesbitt was selected to:

• 2022 Columbus CEO Top Criminal Defense Lawyer
• 2020 Ohio Bar Foundation Fellow
• 2015 Member of American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
• 2015-202021 Super Lawyers® list of Rising Stars
• 2014-2016 list of Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyer
• 2015-2016 Columbus CEO Top Lawyer
• 2015 "10 Best" Attorneys in Ohio
• 2015 Top 100 DUI Attorneys by The National Advocacy for DUI Defense

While attending law school Will met his wife, Laura. Laura is an attorney at the Nesbitt Law Firm and focuses her practice on consumer bankruptcy law. They have three children and reside in Dublin, OH. Will enjoys spending time with his family, cooking, working out and watching sports.

A Small Sampling of Mr. Nesbitt's Case Results

Our client, a standout Division I athlete, was indicted in a federal conspiracy case under 18 U.S.C. § 371. As a team captain and leader for the men's basketball team, where he also earned All-Conference honors, and helped guide his team to a conference championship, our client was unwittingly drawn into a scheme he did not fully understand. The conspiracy involved a mastermind and six co-defendants who used their IDs to pass background checks and submit ATF forms for previously purchased firearms.  The government's initial sentencing guideline recommendation called for 30 to 37 months in federal prison. Over nine months of representation, our defense team negotiated with the Assistant United States Attorney, challenged the government's sentencing calculations, and presented compelling arguments to reclassify our client's role, emphasizing his lack of intent and how he was duped into participation.  At sentencing, the court rejected the government's push for incarceration and imposed five years of probation with no jail time—allowing the client to continue his promising athletic and academic career.   This high-profile case highlights the critical value of skilled federal defense counsel in unraveling complex conspiracies, mitigating sentencing factors, and protecting clients from overly aggressive sentencing guidelines. Early intervention can make all the difference in safeguarding futures, especially for young individuals entangled in schemes beyond their full awareness.  If you or a loved one faces federal charges involving firearms, conspiracy, or any internet-related offenses, contact our firm immediately at 614-884-1100.(United States of America v. J.G., Southern District of Ohio. Represented by Attorneys Will Nesbitt & Tess Frasor).

Our client, a father to an eight-month-old daughter, faced serious allegations of strangulation and domestic violence involving the child's mother. The charges stemmed from two separate incidents where he was accused of viciously attacking and strangling the victim—one lasting an estimated 15 to 30 seconds—along with unplugging a security camera during one of the events. After nearly a year of representation, exhaustive negotiations with the state and the alleged victim failed to yield a favorable resolution, as they refused to consider anything short of a felony conviction. Attorneys Will Nesbitt and Tess Fraser took the case to trial, presenting a robust defense before a jury. The jury ultimately found our client not guilty on both charges, fully acquitting him and allowing him to move forward without the burden of a criminal record. This outcome highlights the critical value of skilled, persistent legal advocacy in high-stakes domestic violence cases, where thorough preparation and trial experience can make all the difference. If you or a loved one is facing allegations of domestic violence, strangulation, or related charges, contact our firm immediately at 614-884-1100 for experienced representation.(State of Ohio v. C.K., Franklin County, Ohio. Represented by Attorneys Will Nesbitt & Tess Fraser)