OVI Laws, Penalties in Ohio

When faced with an OVI charge, it is crucial to prioritize hiring a professional lawyer like Sean Logue, who specializes in Youngstown OVI cases. OVI laws can be complex and having proper representation can potentially result in dropped or reduced charges. A knowledgeable attorney will be able to provide a comprehensive understanding of your situation and guide you towards the best possible outcome.

Outlined below are the descriptions of Ohio’s OVI laws:

First OVI – Considered a first-degree misdemeanor in Ohio, a first OVI offense carries penalties including a maximum jail term of up to six months. However, sentencing might be reduced to a minimum of three days, which can often be replaced with a judge-approved driver intervention program lasting 72 hours, fulfilling state certification requirements. Additional consequences may include a driver’s license suspension ranging anywhere from six months to three years, fines from $375 to $1,075, and optional penalties such as “party” plates (yellow license plates reserved for those with OVI convictions), mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device, limited driving privileges, and participation in alcohol treatment and education programs.

First OVI with High BAC or Chemical Test Refusal – This charge, categorized as a first-degree misdemeanor, entails similar penalties as a regular first OVI offense, but with the mandatory requirement of OVI plates.

Second OVI – Also regarded as a first-degree misdemeanor, a second OVI offense leads to penalties including fines ranging from $525 to $1,625, jail sentences from 10 days to six months, driver’s license suspension from one to five years, probation, alcohol assessment, education, and treatment, as well as the issuance of OVI “party” plates. After a month and a half from the original charge, driving privileges may be restricted. House arrest, electronic monitoring, or a combination can also be part of the potential sentencing.

Second OVI with High BAC or Chemical Test Refusal – Falling into the scope of first-degree misdemeanor, this charge carries sentencing options like the installation of an ignition interlock device, mandatory “party” plates, house arrest, fines ranging from $525 to $1,625, probation, electronic monitoring, jail terms from 20 days to six months, driver’s license suspension for one to five years, compulsory alcohol education, treatment, and assessment, as well as limited driving privileges.

It is vital to engage with a seasoned attorney who can navigate the complexities of OVI laws and protect your rights effectively.

Third OVI- A Third OVI offense is considered a first-degree misdemeanor, like the first and second offenses. For a third conviction, fines can range from $850 to $2,750, with potential jail sentences varying from 30 days to one year. Driver’s license suspensions are extended, lasting from two to 10 years. In cases where the vehicle is registered under your name, there is a possibility of forfeiture. Similar to first and second OVIs, additional consequences include probation, yellow OVI plates, limited driving privileges after 180 days from the initial charge, electronic monitoring with or without house arrest, mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device, as well as alcohol assessment, training, and education.

A Third OVI with High BAC or Chemical Test Refusal is also classified as a first-degree misdemeanor, carrying similar penalties to a regular Third OVI. However, the jail sentence can be extended from 60 days to one year.

First Felony OVI- A First Felony OVI is a fourth-degree felony, resulting in significantly harsher consequences. This includes imprisonment ranging from two months to two and a half years, along with fines totaling between $1,350 and $10,500. Vehicle forfeiture is a possibility if the vehicle is registered in your name. Limited driving privileges may be granted after three years, or your license may be suspended for three years to a lifetime. Mandatory attendance in an alcohol and drug addiction program, assignment of party plates, and installation of an ignition interlock device are also potential outcomes.

Second Felony OVI: A Second Felony OVI charge is prosecuted as a third-degree felony. While penalties largely resemble those of a First Felony OVI, the prison sentence is extended to two months to five years.

Remember, you don’t have to face an OVI charge alone. Contact us today or call (330) 992-3036 for a free consultation.