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What to Do If You’re Facing Charges for Evading a DWI Arrest
The Consequence of Evading a DWI Detainment
Imagine you’re stopped by the police for suspicion of driving while impaired. You might believe that due to your level of intoxication, an arrest is inevitable. In an ill-advised moment, you consider fleeing—jumping a fence, running away—to avoid detainment. However, such actions can compound your legal troubles as you’d not only face the initial DWI charge but also additional penalties for resisting arrest.
In the state of Ohio, it’s against the law to flee from, resist, or attempt to evade a lawful arrest. This can lead to charges of resisting arrest, which may escalate to a felony depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident. Should you or someone close to you be implicated in an obstruction of justice, obtaining legal assistance swiftly is critical.
Seeking Legal Representation in Ohio for Resisting Arrest Charges
Dodging police custody might seem like a quick solution, but the reality is that it worsens your predicament. Additional charges for resisting arrest could pile up, multiplying your legal issues. In such instances, consulting a Youngstown OVI attorney is essential. The Youngstown Criminal Law Group stands ready to support those facing these serious accusations.
Our legal team at the Youngstown Criminal Law Group specializes in protecting our clients in Ohio’s legal system. Armed with extensive experience and resources, we’re poised to craft a robust defense strategy for your case. Reach out to us at (330) 992-3036 to arrange a no-cost initial consultation. We proudly serve clients across Mahoning County. Remember, facing charges can be overwhelming, and navigating Ohio’s legal system without guidance can be daunting. Trust in legal experts like the Youngstown criminal lawyer to advocate on your behalf and strive for the best possible outcome in your case.
Understanding Resisting Arrest in Ohio Law
When someone actively tries to prevent an arrest by fleeing, physically resisting, or obstructing officers, they’re committing a crime in Ohio. The consequences become more severe in situations involving weapons or harm to an officer. Below is a breakdown of what constitutes resisting arrest, based on section 2921.33 of the Ohio Revised Code:
- Active Resistance: When an individual forcefully resists or obstructs an arrest, doing so either recklessly or intentionally.
- Injury Caused to Officers: If during the resistance or interference, an officer is harmed, charges are escalated.
- Use of Deadly Weapons: Engaging with or displaying a deadly weapon—defined in Ohio as any object that can be used to cause death or is explicitly designed for harmful use—during the altercation.
Potential Consequences for Resisting Arrest
Various factors in each case can influence the severity of the punishment for resisting arrest. Standard sentences include:
- For Non-Aggressive Resistance (2nd-degree misdemeanor):
- A maximum of 90 days in jail
- A fine up to $750
- If an Officer is Harmed (1st-degree misdemeanor):
- A maximum of 180 days in jail
- A fine up to $1,000
- Involving a Deadly Weapon (4th-degree felony):
- Up to 18 months in prison
- A fine up to $5,000
Time Frame to Prosecute
The statute of limitations in Ohio sets the period a prosecutor has to initiate charges against someone. This timeline seeks to ensure that cases are handled promptly and evidence remains accurate.
- For misdemeanors such as resisting arrest, charges must be within two years.
- Felony resisting arrest has a longer period of six years, extendable to twenty years if accompanied by aggravated assault charges.
Supplementary Information
- Prison Policy Initiative: A non-profit organization working towards less criminalization in the U.S. and addressing issues like prison overcrowding.
- Resisting Arrest Laws in Ohio: Here you can learn more about the specifics of resisting arrest and the varying degrees of associated penalties.
Legal Support for Resisting Arrest Charges
Facing charges for resisting arrest demands skilled legal defense. In the Youngstown, Ohio area, consider Youngstown criminal lawyer For representation that is both competent and dedicated to fighting for your rights.You can call us at (330) 992-3036 for a free initial consultation to discuss your case in detail.