DUI and OVI charges can have significant ramifications that can cause disruptions to every aspect of a person’s livelihood. Multiple DUI/OVI offenses can bring severe sentences and long-term collateral consequences. However, with the help of an experienced attorney, charges can be dismissed, penalties can be reduced, and some can secure driving privileges.
Those facing drunk or impaired driving charges should consult with the Franklin DUI lawyers at Gounaris Abboud, LPA to discuss a defense to your charges. A Franklin DUI defense lawyer can help those accused of criminal DUI/OVI fight or reduce their charges or penalties.
Give us a call at (937) 222-1515 or send an online message today for a free consultation.
Ohio’s Drunk Driving Laws
Ohio DUI laws govern blood alcohol content (BAC) limits, fines, jail sentences, ignition interlock device requirements, license suspension periods, and insurance requirements.
In Ohio, a driver can be convicted of an OVI without proof of actual impairment.
There are three primary ways one may be charged with an OVI in Ohio:
- Operating a vehicle with a BAC of .08% or higher or a urine alcohol concentration of .11% or greater, with lower levels for certain types of drivers;
- Operating a vehicle while under the influence of any controlled substance, alcohol, or a combination, in a way that impairs the motorist’s driving ability; or
- Operating a vehicle with a certain concentration of a specified controlled substance.
Prosecutors can establish an OVI offense by presenting evidence of impairment such as swerving, bloodshot eyes, loss of coordination, and slurred speech.
Penalties for DUI/OVI in Franklin, OH
Those facing DUI or OVI charges in Ohio may face criminal, administrative, and civil penalties. An OVI lawyer can help those charged with DUI/OVI in Ohio reduce their charges and mitigate the penalties they may face.
Administrative Penalties
The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles can suspend or revoke the license of those charged with an OVI if the person refuses to take a urine, breath, or chemical blood test. These penalties are distinct from any repercussions that one may experience from the court system.
Criminal Penalties
Those arrested for suspicion of DUI/OVI in Franklin, OH, may face criminal charges.
Typically, the criminal penalties for an Ohio DUI/OVI involve considering the number of previous convictions the accused has had within the past ten years and their BAC level.
In addition, Ohio’s Annie’s Law extended the look-back period for Ohio DUI offenses from 6 to 10 years. Thus, the new charge is considered a second offense for those with one prior OVI/DUI conviction in the past ten years. Further, the look-back period is extended from 10 to 20 years for those previously charged with a DUI/OVI offense and refused a sobriety test.
Defenses to DUI/OVI Charges
An experienced Franklin DUI defense attorney can find weak spots in the prosecutor’s case and defend against these charges.
Some defenses to a DUI/OVI charge include:
- Challenging the efficacy of the sobriety test;
- Challenging the validity of the traffic stop and arrest;
- Arguing that there is insufficient evidence of a drunk driving charge.
Defense attorneys can provide invaluable advice, counsel, and representation through every step of a DUI/OVI charge to ensure that their clients secure the best possible outcome.
Are You Facing DUI/OVI Charges in Franklin, Ohio?
If you have an upcoming court date for a DUI/OVI, reach out to the Franklin DUI law firm of Gounaris Abboud. Our criminal defense firm has more than 50 years of combined experience defending the rights, freedom, and futures of good people charged with serious DUI offenses.
We understand the best DUI defenses and how to use them to ensure that your recent arrest has as little impact on your future as possible. We are also available 24/7 to answer your questions or discuss your case whenever something comes up.
To learn more and to schedule a free consultation with a DUI attorney in Franklin, Ohio, call us at (937) 222-1515. You can also reach us through our online contact form.