We Take Cincinnati OVI/DUIs Seriously, So You Can Keep Driving
An OVI/DUI charge should be taken seriously. The consequences of a DUI/DWI charge can leave you without your license, paying heavy fines or even spending time in jail. But that’s where we come in. We can handle your OVI/DUI charge, so you can keep driving.
Our Cincinnati OVI attorneys are assertive and strategic and we’ll do everything possible to protect your rights, freedom and your future. With over 40 years of combined experience helping people throughout Cincinnati with their criminal charges, we know how to get you through a OVI/DUI case.
Protecting Your Interests To Be On The Road
DUI charges often arise from a single, simple mistake. Sometimes the charges are even irrational. But the consequences are very real, and they can have a lasting impact on your life.
An OVI/DUI charge can result in:
- License suspension or even revocation
- Expensive fines
- Jail time and/or probation
- Mandatory alcohol or drug treatment programs
- Points against your license
- Installation of an ignition interlock device on your vehicle
We understand that the consequences of an OVI/DUI are time consuming to deal with. When you work with one of our experienced attorneys, we’ll guide you through the legal process and create a solid plan to move forward. An attorney from Cohen Todd Criminal Defense can help you produce a viable solution that protects your rights.
Ohio’s New 2025 OVI Law
Effective April 2025, Ohio’s new drunk driving legislation—House Bill 37, also known as “Liv’s Law”–introduces significant changes to OVI and DUI enforcement throughout Ohio, including Cincinnati and Hamilton County. Named in memory of Olivia Wright, this law imposes tougher penalties and enhanced requirements for impaired drivers.
Key Changes Under Liv’s Law
- Expanded Ignition Interlock Requirements: The most significant change involves ignition interlock device requirements. Drivers with prior DUI convictions who either fail or refuse chemical tests during pre-conviction administrative license suspension periods must now install ignition interlock devices throughout their suspension period. Additionally, second-time OVI offenders are now required to install the device in order to receive limited driving privileges during their license suspension period.
- Increased Financial Penalties: Liv’s Law raises minimum fines for OVI offenses by $190 across all categories. For example, the minimum fine for a first offense has increased to $565. However, license reinstatement fees decreased from $475 to $315, resulting in a net increase of approximately $30 in total costs.
- Introduction of Oral Fluid Testing: The new law also introduces oral fluid testing as a new enforcement tool. This allows police officers to collect saliva samples from drivers suspected of drug impairment, expanding their ability to detect illegal substances beyond traditional blood and breath testing methods. Refusing oral fluid testing now carries the same consequences as refusing other chemical tests under Ohio’s implied consent laws.
If you are facing OVI charges, consulting with a Hamilton County OVI attorney can help you understand how Liv’s Law may affect your specific case and develop appropriate defense strategies.
Substances Covered Under Ohio OVI Laws
Ohio’s OVI laws cover a comprehensive range of substances that can impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely. Substances include:
- Alcohol: Blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher for drivers 21 and older, .02% for drivers under 21
- Marijuana: THC and other cannabis compounds, even for medical marijuana cardholders
- Prescription medications: Including pain relievers, anxiety medications, sleep aids, and other prescribed drugs that impair driving ability
- Illegal drugs: Such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, LSD, and other controlled substances
- Over-the-counter medications: Including cold medicines, allergy medications, and other drugs containing impairing ingredients
These substances can result in OVI charges even when legally prescribed or purchased, emphasizing the importance of understanding how medications affect your driving capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cincinnati OVI/DUI
Our team can answer any questions you have during a consultation, but here are a few of the ones we see most often relating to DUI/OVI charges.
Can I refuse a breathalyzer test during an OVI stop, and what are the consequences?
Yes, you can refuse a breath test. However, Ohio imposes implied consent laws, meaning that all drivers are considered to have already agreed to be tested when they receive their license.
Refusing the test can lead to penalties, including a six-day jail sentence or a three-day sentence combined with a requirement to register for a 72-hour driver intervention program. You may also have to pay costly fines.
If you have a prior DUI conviction within the last six years, the minimum sentence increases to 20 days and your license will also be suspended. The suspension period is one year for a first offense, and then escalates – two years for a second offense, three years for a third, etc.
What should I do immediately after being charged with an OVI/DUI?
At this critical point, it’s very important to seek guidance from an experienced Ohio OVI lawyer. They can help you understand the legal process, including court dates or hearings you must attend, documents that need to be filed with the court and much more.
What are the potential defenses against an Ohio OVI charge?
There are many possible defenses to an OVI/DUI charge. For example, you might argue that it was an illegal stop in the first place, meaning the police lacked reasonable suspicion. You may also challenge the accuracy of the breath test if the device wasn’t properly calibrated, the officer made mistakes or the officer lacked the necessary training.
How long does a DUI stay on my driving record in Ohio?
You will receive points on your record for an OVI conviction, and those points remain for two years. However, the DUI/OVI conviction itself does not come off your criminal record and will remain permanently.
Learn More About How We Can Help
If you’re wondering what to do about an OVI/DUI charge, you’ve come to the right place. But it’s important to contact us as soon as possible. We have the experience necessary to walk you through the process, and help you get back on the road. Call 513-333-LAWS or use our online contact form to set up an appointment.