High Test OVI in  Warren, Trumbull County, OH

In Warren, Trumbull County, Ohio, a High BAC Equals .17 Percent or Higher

No OVI charge is minor, but if your blood alcohol content (BAC) was .17 percent or higher, it becomes even more serious. Your Warren OVI lawyer understands the methods used by police and state troopers in the area to determine if a person is driving under the influence.

How Is a Low OVI Different From a High OVI?

In Ohio, a low OVI is referred to as a “low test” OVI, where the driver’s BAC is below .17 percent. Conversely, if the driver’s BAC is .17 percent or higher, they are charged with a “high test” OVI. This classification carries harsher penalties compared to a low test OVI.

The Ohio Revised Code defines a high test result as:

• A breath test or whole blood test reading .17 percent or higher
• A urine test result of .238 percent or higher
• A plasma or blood serum test indicating .204 percent or higher

The specifics of this classification are laid out in Section 4511.19(A)(1)(h) of the Ohio Revised Code.

Penalties for a First-Time High Test OVI

The Ohio Revised Code specifies certain penalties for a first-time high test OVI conviction:

• Mandatory yellow license plates
• Minimum jail time: 6 days, or 3 days in jail combined with 3 days in a driver intervention program. The jail sentence could extend up to 6 months.
• Ignition interlock device installation at the offender’s expense, at the judge’s discretion.
• Fines ranging from $375 to $1,075.
• No driving privileges for the first 15 days following the arrest date for an Administrative License Suspension (ALS).
• Additional driver’s license suspension, imposed by the judge, lasting from 6 months to 3 years.

Driver Intervention Program

A driver intervention program, often referred to as DIP, is a three-day alcohol and drug treatment and education program that the judge must approve. Offenders may be ordered to participate, depending on their case. Often, a Warren criminal attorney will suggest this program as a proactive measure to show the court the offender is serious about not repeating the offense. For first-time offenders, this weekend-long intervention includes traffic safety education, OVI prevention, assessments, and referrals for further assistance. Special programs are available for minors.

Why You Need Legal Assistance

The penalties following a high test OVI conviction are severe and costly. Attempting to defend yourself could result in a negative outcome. You need a skilled Warren OVI attorney by your side.

Your Warren OVI lawyer is knowledgeable in OVI law. After speaking with you and examining the evidence against you, your Warren criminal lawyer will identify the best defense options. They will look for errors in the chemical testing and arrest procedures used by the police and use this information to get your charges reduced or even dismissed. Additionally, they can help restore your driving privileges.

Broader Consequences of a High Test OVI Charge

A high test OVI charge has consequences beyond legal ramifications. It’s difficult to keep such charges a secret, especially if an accident occurred. Neighbors, friends, and colleagues will likely comment, and your employment could be jeopardized, particularly if driving is part of your job. Educational opportunities may be limited, and professional licenses could be revoked.

Seek Excellent Representation

Operating a vehicle while intoxicated is serious, with harsh and life-altering consequences. If you are arrested for this charge, excellent legal representation is crucial.

Call (330) 992-3036 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.