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The penalties for a DUI conviction depend on a wide variety of factors, including your blood alcohol content, the circumstances of your arrest, and any previous convictions for a similar offense. Fortunately, the court will not review your entire criminal history, but even convictions that are several years old may impact the outcome of your case. To ensure you’re treated fairly, it’s critical to hire a skilled DUI attorney who will explain the lookback period and fight for your rights.

The Lookback Period for DUI Charges in Ohio

What Is a “Lookback Period”?

Essentially, a lookback period is the window during which a previous offense will be considered a factor in sentencing. Convictions that occurred within the lookback period may result in longer jail sentences, larger fines, and extended license suspensions. Fortunately, cases that fall outside the lookback period should not factor into the court’s decisions.

The Lookback Period Under Ohio Law

In 2017, Ohio enacted new legislation intended to crack down on repeat DUI offenders, with more severe penalties for multiple offenses and an enhanced lookback period. Under the new law, judges may take into account any convictions for DUI charges in the previous 10 years when making their sentencing decisions. However, if you have more than five previous convictions, the lookback period may be extended to 20 years.

How Prior Convictions Impact Your Case

dui attorneyUnder Ohio law, defendants with just one conviction within the lookback period are charged with a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable by a mandatory 10-day jail sentence, or 20 days if there were aggravating factors. Those with two previous convictions may face up to 30 days in jail, while those with more than four convictions in a 20-year period will be charged with a felony, potentially resulting in up to five years in prison. If you have previous convictions for alcohol-related offenses, having a skilled DUI attorney represent your interests can be crucial for achieving a fair result.
 

For over a century, the legal team at Pater, Pater & Halverson Co. have fought for the rights of defendants throughout the Hamilton, OH, area, establishing themselves as skilled professionals with wide-ranging expertise. Their DUI attorneys have an in-depth understanding of the law, and will do whatever they can to protect your interests and ensure justice is done. Visit their website for more on their criminal defense services, get more tips on Facebook, or call (513) 867-1411 to arrange a consultation with a DUI attorney today.

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