OVIs/DUIs
If you’ve been charged with Operating a Vehicle Impaired (OVI), commonly referred to as Driving Under the Influence (DUI), in Ohio, you’re facing serious consequences that can impact your freedom, driving privileges, and future opportunities. At Cohen Todd Criminal Defense, we understand the complexities of Ohio’s OVI laws and are dedicated to providing aggressive, knowledgeable defense to help you navigate these challenges and protect your rights.
Ohio law prohibits operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08% for drivers over 21, with stricter limits for commercial drivers (0.04%) and drivers under 21 (any detectable amount). An OVI charge can arise from chemical tests such as breath, blood, or urine tests, or from officer observations and field sobriety tests.
Penalties in Ohio vary depending on whether the offense is a first, second, or subsequent violation:
- First OVI Offense: May result in up to 6 months in jail, fines up to $1,075, license suspension of 1 to 3 years with eligibility for limited driving privileges after 15 days of no driving, and mandatory attendance in an alcohol education or treatment program.
- Second OVI Offense: Within six years, carries up to 10 days to 6 months in jail, higher fines, license suspension up from 1 to 7 years with eligibility for limited driving privileges after 180 days of no driving, and mandatory ignition interlock device installation.
- Third and Subsequent Offenses: Penalties increase significantly, including longer jail time, longer license suspensions, and longer ignition interlock requirements.
Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Ohio law requires many OVI offenders to install an IID, a breathalyzer connected to the vehicle’s ignition that prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected. For first-time offenders, IID installation may be required after a license reinstatement, while repeat offenders face longer mandatory IID periods.
License Suspension and Administrative Process: In addition to criminal penalties, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) can suspend your driver’s license administratively after an OVI arrest, even before a criminal conviction. You have the right to request a hearing within 7 days to challenge this suspension. Our attorneys help you navigate this process to protect your driving privileges as much as possible.
Our skilled attorneys will carefully review the details of your arrest, including the legality of the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, chemical testing procedures, and paperwork. We seek to identify any violations of your rights or errors that could lead to reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or dismissal. Whether this is your first OVI or a repeat charge, we are committed to defending your case with experience and dedication.
Don’t let an OVI charge define your future. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and strong legal representation tailored to Ohio’s OVI laws.