If you’ve been arrested for a DUI in Ohio, you could face a number of serious penalties, including jail time. Ohio laws require a minimum of three to six days of jail time for DUI offenders. That said, there are ways to avoid the minimum jail sentences and longer prison time associated with DUI convictions.
At KOFFEL | BRININGER | NESBITT we are one of Ohio’s oldest and most reputable DUI Criminal Defense Firms. We are the firm other law firms recommend.
We are listed in Best Lawyers in America for DUI/OVI Representation, a distinction limited to just 1% of the law firms in the United States. With 30 years of experience and over 300 5-star reviews, we know we can handle your case and bring calm to the chaos you’re experiencing.
If you want us to consider taking you as a client, call us today (every day of the year, 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.).
Our veteran attorneys will provide the legal advice and representation you need to mitigate severe penalties like fines, license suspension, and lengthy jail terms. Reach out to our Columbus DUI lawyers today to learn more about your rights and get started on your defense case. You will feel better as soon as you talk to us.
An Attorney Can Determine if You Could Face Jail Time for an Ohio DUI
If you or a loved one are facing charges you’re probably wondering if you will go to jail for a DUI in Ohio. The answer to these questions depends on your unique circumstances and whether this is your first offense. During challenging times like these, It’s best to turn to an experienced attorney.
A Columbus criminal defense lawyer can explain the consequences you’re facing and build a defense case to help you avoid severe outcomes. Our highly experienced attorneys draw on their extensive knowledge of Ohio state DUI laws to answer any questions you have and protect your rights throughout your DUI case.
For a free legal consultation, call 614-884-1100
Ohio’s Mandatory Jail Time for DUI Offenders
According to Ohio law, there’s a minimum jail sentence of 3 days for first-time DUI offenders. That said, you could avoid this minimum sentence by participating in a Driver Intervention Program (DIP). A skilled attorney can build a strong case for you and argue that you should be given the option to attend a DIP instead of spending time in jail.
If this isn’t your first offense, you could spend time in jail if convicted. To avoid the serious consequences of a conviction, you’ll want to work with an experienced attorney. A lawyer can make compelling legal arguments as to why you shouldn’t face jail time or why your sentence should be greatly reduced.
How to Avoid a Jail Sentence After an Ohio DUI
If there’s a possibility that you’ll go to jail for an Ohio DUI charge, you’ll want to do everything you can to avoid that outcome. Not only will a jail sentence restrict your freedom, negatively impact your mental health, and devastate your financial stability, but it will also leave a permanent mark on your criminal record, making it difficult for you to find future employment.
Fortunately, there are several methods that our veteran attorneys can use to help you avoid jail time. Here’s what a lawyer can do to get your DUI charges reduced or dropped:
Challenge the Charges You’re Facing
One way to avoid jail time for a DUI in Ohio is by challenging the charges you’re facing and arguing that they should be completely dropped. There are several ways that an attorney can challenge your charges and protect your future, including the following:
- Question the legality of the traffic stop or arrest
- Challenge the accuracy of the field sobriety tests that were administered at the traffic stop
- Investigate the maintenance and calibration of breathalyzer equipment
- Challenge Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) blood test results
- Analyze the officer’s conduct to determine if they violated conduct or protocol
- Challenge the reliability of any witness testimony that’s being used against you
- Present alternative explanations for behavior that the arresting officer observed
- Take additional steps to challenge the evidence against you
As you can see, there are several steps an attorney can take to combat the charges you’re facing. However, to give your lawyer the time they need to collect the necessary evidence, you’ll want to hire a law firm soon. You’re one call away from feeling better and getting the representation you need to move forward, so don’t wait to contact a lawyer.
Negotiate a Plea Deal
In some cases, DUI defense attorneys are able to work with prosecutors to get charges reduced. This process is commonly referred to as plea bargaining and can help you avoid the consequences associated with a serious offense.
An experienced attorney can negotiate with prosecutors in an attempt to obtain a favorable plea deal. If you agree to a deal, you’ll plead guilty to lesser charges. Ideally, a plea deal will allow you to avoid prison time. A lawyer can assess your unique situation and determine if this is the right course of action for your defense case.
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Meet With a Columbus DUI Lawyer for Free
If you’re facing drunk driving charges, it’s only natural to wonder if you’ll go to jail for a DUI in Ohio. An attorney from KOFFEL | BRININGER | NESBITT can review the details of your situation and advise you if you’re facing a prison sentence. If you are, our team can work tirelessly to help you avoid that outcome.
Since 1993, we’ve been the firm other lawyers call for help with DUI cases. We’ve also received awards and recognitions like Top 1% Best Lawyers in America. You can rely on us to do what’s right for your case and your future. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We’re available seven days a week from 7 am to 10 pm and offer payment plans with low deposits.
Call or text 614-884-1100 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form