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OVI Defense Lawyers In Ohio

woman pulled over for OVI in ohio with police officer at her window

Being charged with an OVI in Ohio and not knowing how this can affect your future is a scary experience.

The first thing you should do is hire a reputable lawyer who regularly practices this area of law. There are many deadlines for motions that need to be filed in order to protect your case, and it is valuable to explore those options early on in your case.

Consequences for an OVI conviction include mandatory license suspension, mandatory fines and mandatory jail time. It can also include yellow license plates, ignition interlock devices, vehicle immobilization or forfeiture, probation and drug/alcohol assessments or counseling. There are many secondary consequences, such as increased auto insurance rates and potential effects on your employment, professional license, health insurance and immigration status.

Our Defense Experience Makes A Difference

When hired, our OVI defense lawyers will enter a not guilty plea and appeal the administrative license suspension. Next, we will demand discovery from the state and review the evidence they have against you. While it may seem like they have a strong case when you are initially arrested, our office will spend the time to research each potential weakness in their case.

We will then file a Motion to Suppress based on what we learn from our review of your case. We will ask these questions:

  • Did the officer/trooper have probable cause to stop your vehicle?
  • Did the officer/trooper have justification to detain you for an investigation?
  • Did the officer/trooper perform the field sobriety tests correctly?
  • Did the police department follow the Ohio regulations for any breath, urine or blood tests?
  • Was the machine in proper working order, and were records maintained regularly and completely?

We always attempt to negotiate an acceptable plea arrangement on your behalf, and if we do not reach an agreement, the Motion to Suppress hearing will be held, and ultimately, a bench/jury trial.

The OVI attorneys at Kroener Hale Law Firm will see your case through each step of the way, frequently updating you on the progress and working with you to obtain a favorable result. Don’t let a simple mistake turn into a lifetime of regret. If you are accused of OVI in Ohio, let the experienced defense lawyers at Kroener Hale Law Firm go to bat for you. The state is not out to help you, but we are! Let us protect your rights!

Free 30-minute initial consultation: 513-716-5940 or email us.

Will You Lose Your Driver’s License After An OVI in Ohio?

Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol can result in a range of penalties for Ohio drivers. If you face this type of charge, you may have concerns about the future of your driving privileges. You could even lose your CDL.

Learn about the factors that affect driver’s license suspension after an OVI in Ohio.

Administrative License Suspension In Ohio

If your blood alcohol content is over the legal limit at the scene of a traffic stop, the officer can confiscate your license right away. This administrative license suspension lasts at least 90 days depending on the circumstances of your case. If you refuse a BAC test, you can receive an ALS for a minimum of one year. In either case, you must maintain auto insurance and pay a reinstatement fee to get your license back after the suspension period.

OVI Penalties In Ohio

In addition to the ALS, the court can order further license suspension when sentencing you for OVI. The term can last one to three years if you have no prior OVI convictions within 10 years. However, you can get a restricted license after 15 days by installing an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.

For a second-time OVI, the license suspension term increases to a maximum of seven years. You must wait 45 days before you can apply for a restricted license. With two prior OVIs, the court can suspend your license for two to 10 years and you must serve at least 180 days before getting a restricted license.

What is an OVI in Ohio?

An OVI, or operating a vehicle impaired, is the legal term used in Ohio for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You can be charged with OVI even if you’re not technically driving but in control of a vehicle (sitting in the driver’s seat with the engine running). It’s broader than a DUI (driving under the influence) as it applies to any vehicle, including bicycles and other conveyances.

In addition to alcohol and drugs, OVIs can also involve impairment caused by prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs. Contrary to common belief, even a first-time OVI benefits from a sound defense.

What is an Operating a Vehicle after Under Age Consumption (OVUAC) suspension in Ohio?

An OVUAC suspension applies to drivers under 21 caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) between 0.02% and 0.08% (lower than the standard OVI limit of 0.08%). The penalty includes a driver’s license suspension (up to two years) and potential fines, jail time, alcohol treatment programs and probation.

An OVUAC is a severe offense that can impact driving privileges and future opportunities for youths in Ohio. A strong defense strategy can minimize these impacts, potentially fostering a favorable outcome.

Can I lose my CDL in Ohio for an OVI?

Losing their license to operate a commercial vehicle over an OVI is a major concern for people who make their living that way. CDLs (commercial driver’s licenses) have stricter OVI regulations. Unlike a regular drunk driving conviction, those involving CDLs result in a minimum CDL disqualification of one year. Subsequent OVI convictions could lead to permanent disqualification.

The loss of your CDL can significantly impact your ability to continue a career in the trucking industry. Swift legal action can help you protect your commercial driving privileges.

Free 30-minute Consultation About Your OVI Charge

Understanding the possible license suspension you may face after an OVI can help you determine your next steps as you prepare for your hearing. For your convenience we have law offices in Milford, Cincinnati, and West Chester, Ohio. Contact us today at 513-716-5940 to schedule a free 30-minute phone/virtual consultation to learn if we can help you.

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