practice areas

OVI

Aggressive, Experienced OVI Defense

Alcohol and/or drugs have an appreciable effect on an individual’s ability to operate a motor vehicle. This can occur whether or not the blood alcohol content (“BAC”) or drug threshold is equal to or above the legal limit. In Ohio, Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol (“OVI”) occurs when an individual operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and other drug/substance of abuse. More specifically, Ohio Revised Code Section 4511.19, describes the variety of ways an individual can be charged with OVI and the substances that can lead to the charge.
Although it seems simple, OVI law is one of the most complex and involved areas of practice. OVI law is forever evolving and changing. Further, individuals can be charged with OVI “Impaired”, OVI Per Se (.08 and above), or both.
An OVI conviction not only carries with it potential criminal penalties but has long lasting collateral consequences that include:

Mandatory driver's license suspension

Jail time

High fines

Potential loss of employment

Immobilization or loss of vehicle

License reinstatement fees

Probation

Costly insurance premiums

The stigma of an OVI conviction