Many people charged with OVI (Driving Under the Influence) or DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) in Ohio have a particularly difficult time dealing with their criminal charge, often because it is the first crime with which they have ever been charged. OVI or DWI charges are made against approximately 1.5 million drivers every year. These arrests can result in serious consequences. A person who is convicted of a OVI or DWI can face heavy fees and penalties, a loss of driving privileges, and may be sentenced to serve jail time.
Given that so much is at stake in a OVI or DWI case, it is important to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney who has handled many OVI and DWI cases in Ohio, and who will guide you through the legal maze of the Ohio criminal justice system and Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
After the DMV hearing, the accused person must face the criminal proceeding. The Drunk Driving penalties in the state of Ohio are set forth by statute and can be very complicated. The basic statute allows for a range of possible OVI sentences, but there may be modifications to the sentence based on the following factors:
- Having a prior conviction within the last seven (7) years
- Speeding 20 mph (or more) over the speed limit at the time of the OVI
- Having a child under the age of 14 in the car at the time of the OVI
- Having a blood-alcohol reading of over .20%
- Refusing to submit yourself to chemical testing
Within the range that is set forth by statute, the sentence in a OVI case will be affected by such factors as:
- The various facts of the case
- The policies of the prosecutors and local courthouse
- The weaknesses or "holes" in the case, as uncovered by the defense attorney
- The reputation of the defense attorney
It is important to note that the results of the breath, blood or urine test will be a factor in determining the charges that will be brought against you and the possible sentences. If you were driving with a blood-alcohol level of over .08%, then there has been a OVI offense. Please remember, however, that the OVI laws relate to the blood-alcohol level at the time of the driving, and not at the time of the test. This is a very important difference that may be used in your favor. It is also important to understand that the tests - particularly the breath tests -- are unreliable and therefore susceptible to attack by an experienced OVI / DWI attorney.
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