OVI Laws and Penalties in Ohio

If you are charged with an OVI, your first step should be to hire an experienced lawyer like Sean Logue. The laws surrounding OVI charges can be complex, and with the right legal representation, it’s possible to have your charges reduced or even dismissed. A knowledgeable attorney will explain the potential consequences you are facing and work towards achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

Below is a breakdown of Ohio’s OVI laws:

First OVI

A first-time OVI is classified as a first-degree misdemeanor in Ohio. The penalties for this offense include a possible jail term of up to six months. However, a judge might sentence you to just three days, which can often be substituted with a 72-hour driver intervention program certified by the state. You will also face a driver’s license suspension lasting from six months to three years, and fines between $375 and $1,075. A New Castle criminal lawyer can explain optional penalties, which may include restricted yellow “party” plates, an ignition interlock device, limited driving privileges, or mandatory alcohol treatment programs.

First OVI with High BAC or Chemical Test Refusal

This charge is also a first-degree misdemeanor. The consequences are largely the same as a standard first OVI, but the “party” plates become mandatory.

Second OVI

A second OVI offense is also considered a first-degree misdemeanor. The penalties increase, with fines ranging from $525 to $1,625 and a jail sentence of 10 days to six months. Your driver’s license can be suspended for one to five years. Other consequences include probation, a mandatory alcohol assessment, and the issuance of “party” plates. A New Castle DUI lawyer can help you understand options like house arrest or electronic monitoring. Your driving privileges may be limited, typically starting a month and a half after the initial charge.

Second OVI with High BAC or Chemical Test Refusal

This offense is a first-degree misdemeanor with stricter penalties. In addition to fines from $525 to $1,625 and a license suspension of one to five years, the jail sentence increases to a minimum of 20 days and a maximum of six months. An ignition interlock device, party plates, house arrest, and electronic monitoring are all potential sentencing options. Seeking guidance from a New Castle criminal lawyer is crucial in these situations.

Third OVI

A third OVI conviction remains a first-degree misdemeanor but carries more severe consequences. Fines increase significantly, ranging from $850 to $2,750. The jail sentence can be between 30 days and one year. Your driver’s license suspension will be longer, lasting from two to 10 years. A major penalty at this stage is the potential forfeiture of your vehicle if it is registered in your name. Other punishments are similar to previous offenses, including probation, party plates, and mandatory alcohol programs. A New Castle DUI lawyer can clarify the details regarding limited driving privileges, which may be granted after 180 days.

Third OVI with High BAC or Chemical Test Refusal

This charge is also a first-degree misdemeanor. The penalties are similar to a standard third OVI, but the jail sentence is extended to a range of 60 days to one year.

First Felony OVI

A first felony OVI is a fourth-degree felony with substantially higher consequences. You could face incarceration for two months to two and a half years and fines between $1,350 and $10,500. Vehicle forfeiture is mandatory if the car is titled in your name. Your license may be suspended for three years to life, with the possibility of limited driving privileges after three years. A New Castle criminal lawyer from Youngstown Criminal Law Group can explain other requirements, such as mandatory participation in an alcohol and drug addiction program, party plates, and the installation of an ignition interlock device.

Second Felony OVI

A second felony OVI is prosecuted as a third-degree felony. While many penalties mirror those of a first felony OVI, the prison sentence is longer, ranging from two months to five years.

You don’t have to face an OVI charge alone! Contact us today or call (330) 992-3036 for a free consultation.