Wrongful Entrustment Charges in Ohio: How We Can Help

Owning a vehicle comes with responsibilities. One of them is being careful about who you let drive it. If you hand your keys to someone whose license has been suspended, you could face a charge called wrongful entrustment. This offense applies in several situations, including the following:

• The person behind the wheel doesn’t hold a valid driver’s license, CDL (commercial driver’s license), learner’s permit, or non-resident driving privileges.
• That person’s license has been suspended.
• The driver can’t show proof of financial responsibility or auto insurance.
• He or she is under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Letting someone drive your car under any of these conditions is a serious matter. You can be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor, which carries weight similar to an OVI/DUI charge. If you find yourself facing this kind of situation, getting legal support matters—and that’s where a knowledgeable Jefferson Ohio criminal lawyer can step in to guide you.

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we’ve handled hundreds of cases just like this and worked hard to secure the best possible results for our clients. So if you or someone you love has been charged with wrongful entrustment, don’t wait. Reach out to our team right away and let us help you understand your options.

When You Can Be Charged With Wrongful Entrustment

The circumstances listed above can already trigger a wrongful entrustment charge. But there are other situations that may apply too. Ohio Revised Code 4511.203 spells out the specific boundaries that determine when this offense applies.

Beyond the points already mentioned, you can be charged with wrongful entrustment if the alleged driver is related to you by blood or marriage. The same is true if that person lives in your household. In either case, the situation can still lead to a wrongful entrustment charge, and an experienced Jefferson Ohio OVI attorney can help you make sense of how the law applies to your circumstances.

Under Ohio law, wrongful entrustment charges are treated just as seriously as a license suspension. As a first-degree offense, the penalties can include:

• Up to 6 months of imprisonment
• A fine of $1,000
• 30 days of vehicle immobilization for a first offense
• 60 days of vehicle immobilization for a second offense
• Vehicle forfeiture for a third conviction

If you’ve been caught in a situation like this, it’s essential to speak with a trusted Jefferson Ohio criminal lawyer. You’ll need full legal support so your attorney can fight for your case aggressively and work toward the best possible resolution.

Speak With an Attorney Today

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we’ve been handling cases like these for many years and have helped countless clients achieve favorable outcomes. Our team will listen to your case carefully, protect your rights, and make sure you get the justice you deserve.

Call (330) 791-8104 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.