DUI

In Ohio, driving under the influence (DUI) – also known as operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI) – is a serious traffic offense that could result in heavy penalties including:

• Fines
• Jail or prison time
• License suspension or revocation
• Vehicle impoundment or forfeiture

In cases involving an accident, the penalties are increased radically. In such a case, the charge filed is most often vehicular assault or vehicular homicide, both serious felony offenses with extensive penalties, including time in state prison.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is most frequently charged as a misdemeanor offense. Many people are experiencing a first encounter with the criminal justice system when charged with DUI/OVI.

• Felony Sentencing in Ohio – What Sentence Will Be Imposed?

A conviction carries extensive penalties, including a jail sentence of 3 consecutive days (72 consecutive hours) and possibly an additional jail term of up to 6 months.

What Happens if I am Arrested for DUI/OVI?

In addition to time spent in jail, a DUI conviction carries significant fines as part of the penalties that could be imposed, as well as license suspension that spans years.

In the state of Ohio, you can only be arrested for DUI if it is alleged that you were operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Law enforcement can only pull you over only if there is reasonable suspicion that you are driving your vehicle while intoxicated by drugs or alcohol. You must be demonstrating driving behavior that would indicate intoxication, or you may have initially been pulled over for another traffic violation or minor infraction. A police stop without probable cause is illegal.

If you believe that a police officer pulled you over without probable cause, it may be possible to get your case dismissed. If you are seeking defense counsel to assist you in matters related to sentencing, or if you believe you were wrongfully arrested and charged with OVI, we are here to help you.

Call us at (740) 660-4230

It may be possible to have your DUI charges dismissed if your constitutional rights were violated in the police stop. Evidence such as breath or blood tests could be open to challenge. Every case should be carefully evaluated before you make a decision about your plea. Once you plead guilty, there is no turning back.