Centerville OVI (DUI) Attorney

Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious crime in the state of Ohio. It also has serious consequences for both your immediate future and beyond. It could make it difficult for you to pursue certain forms of employment and your license could be suspended. If you have been pulled over for OVI, you need an attorney who will advocate on your behalf and hopefully get your charges reduced on the condition that you seek counseling for your alcohol consumption.

Comunale Law Office services clients in Centerville, OH who have been charged with OVI. We may be able to get your charges reduced, let you keep your license, and let you move on with your life. If you have been charged with OVI, give our law office a call at (937) 227-3310 or contact us online for a free initial consultation.

What Constitutes an OVI in Ohio?

In Ohio, an individual who is operating a motor vehicle with a blood-alcohol level of .08 or higher is considered legally intoxicated and subject to charges of OVI. In addition, it is unlawful to refuse an alcohol test.

While some clever people may think that the Fifth Amendment protects them from turning over their blood or refusing a breathalyzer test, it unfortunately does not work that way. The Fifth Amendment only protects you from giving testimony against yourself in court. If the police demand physical evidence from you, you are not at liberty to refuse. If you do refuse, it will result in the suspension of your license for one year. It is best to cooperate with the police.

In addition, you can be charged with OVI for driving under the influence of certain drugs. This not only includes illegal drugs, but even drugs for which you have a prescription. If it can be determined that these drugs impair your ability to drive then you can be charged under state law.

Penalties for OVI in Ohio

While this is unlikely, penalties for a first-time offense can include six months in prison and a $1,000 fine. In addition, your license can be suspended for up to two years. The penalties are stiff if it is not your first time being convicted of OVI and there may be more severe consequences if your blood-alcohol level was much higher than .08.

It is important to have a skilled attorney handle your case. An attorney can be instrumental in reducing your charges and getting a plea bargain that you can live with. Talk to our lawyers today for a free evaluation of your case.