Ohio DUI Lawyers
If you’re caught driving under the influence of alcohol in Ohio, you’ll be charged with DUI/OVI, which can significantly impact your life and career. You might face a lifetime loss of driving privileges or encounter professional repercussions. This is why contacting a Warren OVI lawyer is crucial. They can guide you through the legal process, potentially reducing penalties or even getting the charges dropped. At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, our experienced Warren criminal lawyers can assist you in navigating your case, helping you deal with the consequences swiftly.
Ohio DUI Laws
Under the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) 4511.19, it’s illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The following conditions apply:
- Substance Abuse: Whether it involves alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both.
- BAC Levels: If your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is 0.8% or higher at the time of an incident.
How You Can Be Charged with OVI in Ohio
- High BAC Levels: For general drivers, a BAC of 0.8% or more is the limit. For commercial vehicle drivers, the limit is 0.4%.
- Impaired Judgment: Even if your BAC is below the legal limit, under ORC 4506.01, police can charge you if they prove your judgment and reflexes were impaired by drugs, substances, or over-the-counter medications.
- Dangerous Drugs: According to ORC 4729.01, even legally prescribed drugs can impair judgment and reflexes, leading to DUI charges.
These are just the basic laws under which you can be charged with DUI. Many other laws might also apply, making it essential to contact an experienced Warren criminal lawyer.
Difference Between OVI and DUI
There’s no fundamental difference between OVI and DUI; they are terms used by different states for similar offenses. In Ohio, it’s referred to as Operating a Vehicle under the Influence (OVI). The prosecution must prove the offender was impaired while driving. Hiring an expert Warren OVI lawyer is essential for navigating these complex cases.
DUI Offenses Handled by Youngstown Criminal Law Group
Our Warren criminal lawyers handle various DUI cases, including:
First DUI Offense
- Description: Charged for the first time or within 10 years.
- Conditions: BAC over the legal limit or impairment by medications.
Second DUI Offense
- Description: Charged within 10 years of the first offense.
- Consequences: Harsher punishments, increased fines, and more jail time.
Third DUI Offense
- Description: Charged a third time within 10 years.
- Consequences: Imprisonment, high fines, house arrest, and yellow OVI plates on your vehicle after license reinstatement.
Physical Control of Vehicle
- Law: Under ORC 4511.194, it’s a misdemeanor to be impaired in physical control of a vehicle.
- Punishment: Lesser than a first DUI offense.
Under Age DUI or OVUAC
- Law: Under 21? Drinking is prohibited in Ohio.
- Conditions: Impairment due to prescribed drugs also applies.
- Assistance: A lawyer’s help is crucial.
Aggravated Vehicular Assault and Homicide
- Consequences: If drunk driving leads to an accident causing injury or death, it will be a felony with severe penalties.
By understanding these aspects and laws (Ohio Revised Code), you can see why having a knowledgeable Warren OVI lawyer by your side is crucial. Contact at (330) 992-3036 Youngstown Criminal Law Group for expert legal assistance.