OVI and DUI defense with targeted motion practice and local insight

In Ohio, the charge is officially called OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired), not DUI (Driving Under the Influence). The terms are used interchangeably, but OVI is the correct legal term. It covers both alcohol and drug impairment, including prescription medications.

Yes, but there are consequences. Refusing a breath test triggers an automatic license suspension under Ohio's implied consent law. The refusal can also be used as evidence against you in court. However, refusing may eliminate one piece of evidence the state would use to prosecute you. We assess each situation individually.

Possibly. There are two separate license suspensions: an administrative suspension by the BMV (Bureau of Motor Vehicles) and a court-ordered suspension if convicted. You have a limited time to appeal the administrative suspension. We help you navigate both processes and work to minimize or avoid suspension when possible.

For a first-time OVI with a BAC under .17, penalties include 3 days to 6 months in jail (with alternatives like a driver intervention program), fines of $375 to $1,075, and a license suspension of 6 months to 3 years. High-test OVI (.17 or higher) carries enhanced penalties. Every case is different, and we work to minimize consequences.

In some cases, yes. Depending on the facts, evidence, and your prior record, we may be able to negotiate a reduction to reckless operation or a physical control charge. These outcomes depend on weaknesses in the state's case, procedural errors, or successful motion practice.

Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are roadside physical tests used to assess impairment, such as the walk-and-turn, one-leg stand, and horizontal gaze nystagmus. These tests are subjective, and officers often fail to administer them properly. We review dashcam and body camera footage to identify errors and challenge the results.

Drug OVI charges apply when you are impaired by illegal drugs, prescription medications, or over-the-counter drugs. The state must prove impairment through blood or urine tests, officer observations, and expert testimony. These cases are complex, and we challenge lab procedures, timelines, and the reliability of testing.

In many cases, yes. Ohio allows for occupational driving privileges (often called a "work license" or "hardship license") during a suspension. This allows you to drive for work, school, medical appointments, and other necessary activities. We help you file for privileges as early as possible.

A high-test OVI occurs when your blood alcohol content (BAC) is .17 or higher, more than twice the legal limit of .08. High-test OVI carries enhanced penalties, including mandatory jail time, longer license suspensions, and yellow license plates. We challenge the accuracy of breath and blood testing to dispute high-test charges.

Not without consulting an attorney first. An OVI conviction has serious consequences including jail, fines, license suspension, insurance increases, and a permanent criminal record. We thoroughly review the evidence, challenge weaknesses in the state's case, and explore all options before advising on a plea.

An OVI becomes a felony if you have prior OVI convictions within the past 10 years (4th offense in 10 years) or if you caused serious physical harm to another person. Felony OVI carries 6 months to several years in prison, substantial fines, and lengthy license suspensions. These cases require aggressive defense.

In Ohio, an OVI conviction stays on your criminal record permanently and cannot be sealed or expunged. It also remains on your driving record and is considered for sentencing purposes for 10 years. This is why fighting the charge is so important.