Operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or, more simply, an OVI charge, is a serious offense in Ohio. As your DUI attorney can explain, there are numerous penalties that even apply to a first-time conviction. Those penalties get worse with each consecutive conviction within a six-year period.

What Are the Penalties for Multiple OVI Convictions?

1. First OVI Conviction

Even for your first OVI conviction, you may be facing a jail term of three days or up to six months. A fine of $250 up to $1,000 may also be ordered by the judge. You should also expect to have your license suspended for a period of at least six months. While your DUI attorney may be able to arrange a lower imprisonment term, fine, and license suspension, the minimums are required with a conviction.

2. Second OVI Conviction

Your second OVI conviction within a six-year period will carry a jail term of at least 10 days. Additionally, you can expect to pay a fine of $350 up to $1,500. As your DUI attorney may advise you, a license suspension of one to five years will also apply.

3. Third OVI Conviction 

A third OVI conviction is still considered a misdemeanor, carrying a jail term of at least 30 days. The fine is the same ($350-$1,000), but, since this is a third offense, your attorney may not be able to convince the judge to keep the fine at the lower end of the spectrum. Your license may be suspended for up to 10 years and, when your driving privileges are restored, you will be required to have an interlock ignition device attached to your vehicle.

4. Fourth OVI Conviction

When you have at least four OVI convictions on your record, you’ll be facing at least 60 days in jail. The fine is much more severe, starting at $800, and can be as high as $10,000. Additionally, your license will be suspended for a minimum of 3 years, although the judge may suspend it permanently. If a criminal lawyer can get your license suspension lifted, your vehicle will be equipped with an interlock ignition device.

Are These the Same for Underage Drivers?

While the penalties for underage drinkers are the same, establishing intoxication is different. To charge an adult with an OVI violation, the driver must have a BAC (blood alcohol content) of .08% or higher. For commercial drivers, that number is a little lower with a .04% minimum BAC. However, those under the age of 21 with a BAC of .02% or higher can be cited with an OVI charge.

Pater, Pater & Halverson Co. is a comprehensive law firm in Hamilton, OH, that practices in estate planning, personal injury, business, and criminal law. If you are facing an OVI charge, they can provide you with a skilled and knowledgeable DUI attorney. Since they know Ohio laws and are familiar with the local court system, they may be able to help you obtain a better outcome in your case. To learn more about the firm’s staff and areas of practice, visit their website. To set up an appointment for an initial consultation, call them at (513) 867-1411.