The operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence is hazardous for the driver and other people around them on the roads. Ohio has set forth substantial penalties for anyone convicted of a DUI.
When you face Toledo DUI penalties, you have the right to contest the charges and fight back to avoid these harsh consequences with the help of a skilled DUI defense attorney. Contact our firm today to speak with our knowledgeable team to begin reviewing the details of your case.
Driving under the influence (DUI) is considered a criminal offense in Ohio. In Ohio, if you operate a vehicle while under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or both, you may be charged with Operating a Vehicle Impaired (OVI). These acronyms are used interchangeably. The adverse consequences for a DUI/OVI conviction will vary depending on the arrest circumstances and charges.
For a first-time offender, some of the Toledo OVI penalties include:
While first-time offenses involve lighter penalties than multiple convictions, there are severe and lasting implications for every conviction. Additionally, a person with a blood alcohol content or BAC of 0.17 percent or higher will also be subject to aggravating penalties, which can mean harsher consequences.
If a criminal court finds an individual guilty of multiple DUI convictions within ten years, penalties can include the following:
Multiple DUI/OVI convictions with aggravating factors will mean facing more severe consequences, including additional jail time, participation in a driver’s intervention program, and house arrest.
As with the other penalties for a DUI conviction in Toledo, the driver’s license suspension term will also vary depending on the BAC level and whether it is a first-time conviction or subsequent. A person facing charges for a fourth DUI or more could lose the ability to drive for life.
Drivers in Toledo can request that the court grant them limited driving privileges during their suspension term. However, they will face a mandatory time frame without the ability to drive, depending on how many convictions they have in ten years.
A restricted license will allow the party to commute to work, school, medical appointments, and driving or addiction courses to complete the terms of the sentence. The mandatory time frame without a license can vary from 15 days to one year.
A DUI or OVI charge is serious, and can lead to the loss of your driving ability for an extended period as well as jail time. However, it is important to remember that a DUI arrest does not always mean the court will convict you.
Finding a hard-working attorney skilled with Toledo DUI penalties is the best way to reach a positive outcome. Our firm can provide you with the help you need. Call soon to schedule a good time to meet when you need help planning and preparing your case.
