In Ohio, what many people know as a charge of driving under the influence (DUI) is worded as operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs (OVI). Despite the different wording, being accused of driving under the influence is a serious situation that should be handled with caution and subtlety. Facing OVI charges can leave you concerned about what the future could hold for every aspect of your life.
Your first step in fighting against the charges you face should be finding a reliable and experienced Marysville OVI lawyer. Koffel Brininger Nesbitt has been navigating the Ohio judicial system for more than 30 years and has defended countless clients against all manner of criminal charges.
Take charge of your life and connect with your Marysville criminal defense lawyer from our law firm to learn more about the penalties you could be facing if convicted, how strong the state’s case against you might be, and how we can help you build the strongest defense for the circumstances of your case.
The Charges You Could Be Facing
If you are wondering what crimes in Ohio carry prison terms, you should not be surprised to learn that the state takes OVI offenses seriously, and the potential consequences you may be facing could have a devastating impact on your life.
Depending on the specific details of your case, you could be facing misdemeanor or felony charges. The level of your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), if you are under 21, and if there was a crash with injuries will all have a bearing on how the prosecutor will choose to charge you.
If you have never had a DUI or OVI, your OVI lawyer in Marysville may be able to work with the prosecution to reduce your charges. If you have already been convicted of an OVI offense, finding leniency may be difficult.
Once we have reviewed the details of your case, we can give you a better estimation of the level of charge you could expect to face.
Misdemeanor OVI Charges
Under Ohio Revised Code §4511.19, the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration in Ohio is 0.08%. First-time OVI offenders with BAC levels above 0.08% but below 0.17% may only be facing misdemeanor charges, but this does not mean you should not worry.
A conviction, even for a first offense and at the misdemeanor level, could mean a one-year suspension of your driver’s license, up to $1,075 in fines, a $475 driver’s license reinstatement fee, and up to six months in jail.
Felony OVI Charges
If you have a BAC level above 0.17%, you have been convicted of OVI before, or someone was injured while you were allegedly driving under the influence, you could be facing more severe penalties.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, the penalties could result in six months or more in prison and the loss of your license for up to seven years or more. Discussing your case in detail with a Marysville DUI defense lawyer can help you understand the charges you can expect to face.
For a free legal consultation with a ovi lawyer serving Marysville, call 614-884-1100
Evidence the State May Have Against You
OVI charges are almost always based on the observations of the arresting officer and may likely be caught on the officer’s dash or body camera. It usually starts with the officer observing driving behavior that could be confused with distracted driving or a medical condition.
The officer then initiates a traffic stop based on how you were driving, and through further observations, such as the supposed odor of alcohol, they may then request that you submit to a chemical BAC test, either through breath analysis or a blood test.
If you are arrested, you should invoke your right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment. You should then contact your OVI attorney in Marysville with Koffel Brininger Nesbitt before making any statements to law enforcement. The police can and will use anything you say against you when advising the prosecutor if charges will be filed against you.
How Implied Consent May Affect Your Case
Under Ohio Revised Code §4511.191, you have already given consent to have your BAC tested by simply having a driver’s license. You may not have realized it, or it has been so long since you first got your driver’s license that you do not remember, but by obtaining a license in Ohio, you have already agreed to submit to a BAC test when it is requested by law enforcement.
We may be able to contest the results in court, but if you refuse to take the test under Ohio Revised Code §4511.192, your driving privileges will be revoked immediately because of your refusal.
Marysville OVI Lawyer Near Me 614-884-1100
Consequences of an OVI Conviction May Affect You for Years
Your ideal outcome should be either a dismissal of your charges or an acquittal in court. However, if you are convicted, beyond the fines and possible jail time, you may have your driving privileges suspended for years.
If you can regain your driving privileges, you could be required to have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed which will test your BAC by breath before your vehicle will be able to start.
While the details of your case will determine how best to proceed, there are some consequences you should expect regardless of the level of charges.
The Ohio Supreme Court has compiled most OVI offenses into a chart that can give you an idea of what to expect. If someone was injured or killed while you were driving under the influence, you may need to consult with a Marysville OVI lawyer before you can fully comprehend the penalties you could be facing.
Collateral Consequences May Be Catastrophic
An OVI conviction could mean disaster for your personal and professional lives. Relationships with family and friends could be affected, your employment could be at risk, and your criminal record will be made available to any entity that conducts a background check. Having your charges dismissed is ideal since, if convicted, these consequences are likely to impact every part of your life.
Click to contact our Marysville Criminal Defense Lawyers today
Connect with Your Premier Criminal Defense Attorney in Marysville, Ohio
Facing OVI charges can leave you feeling concerned that you will go to jail or that you may lose your license, job, or even your family. While it may be difficult to deal with the stress of a possible conviction and the consequences that come along with it, you do not have to go through this alone.
Find the help you need to work through this hardship with a top-rated legal firm that has considerable experience defending individuals accused of OVI.
Building your confidence by choosing the right Marysville OVI attorney to represent you may be your best first step. Take advantage of more than 30 years of experience when you choose Koffel Brininger Nesbitt to fight for your freedom and your rights.
Fill out our quick and confidential contact form now or call our office to schedule your consultation as soon as today.
Call or text 614-884-1100 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form