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If you’re unfamiliar with the laws in Ohio that deal with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you may not understand what an OVI arrest entails. This guide will acquaint you with the law so you can avoid risking your safety and driving privileges.

A Guide to OVI Arrests in Ohio

OVI (operating a vehicle while impaired) is the same criminal charge as DWI (driving while intoxicated) and DUI (driving under the influence). Although many states use the more familiar DUI and DWI acronyms, Ohio has used the OVI or OMVI (operating a motor vehicle while impaired) designation for several decades.

The change, which occurred in 1982, acknowledges that an OVI arrest can also be levied against a driver under the influence of drugs. Although a driver may not be intoxicated, certain drugs impair the ability to operate a motor vehicle. The OVI designation applies to any arrest in which a driver’s abilities have been impaired by alcohol, illegal narcotics, or prescribed medications.

What Are the Penalties? 

The penalties for an OVI conviction grow more severe for each additional arrest. A first conviction is far more serious than a regular traffic violation. A first conviction carries a minimum jail term of three days. In some cases, a judge may suspend the jail term and allow a driver to attend a three-day intervention course.

OVI ArrestIn addition, if you’re convicted, you may face probation—up to five years. OVI convictions also carry fines that increase with each consecutive conviction. A first offense carries a fine up to $1,075, excluding any court fees you may be required to pay.

You should expect your driver’s license to be suspended for a minimum of one year. A suspension may be reduced if the defendant volunteers to equip their vehicle with an ignition interlock device.

If your blood alcohol concentration is higher than 0.17% on a first OVI offense, penalties will be doubled, and you’ll be required to affix restricted license plates to your car.

 

An OVI arrest is a serious matter, requiring the expertise of a criminal defense attorney. The legal team at David S. Washington Jr. in Hamilton, OH, will manage your case and work to achieve the best possible outcome. To learn more about their areas of practice, visit their website. To request an initial consultation, call (513) 751-1400.

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