Ohio uses the term OVI, which stands for Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence. Many people still refer to this as DUI. A person may be charged with OVI after allegations involving alcohol, drugs or a combination of both.

An OVI case may involve questions about:

• Whether the traffic stop was lawful

• Whether the officer had a valid reason to continue the investigation

• Field sobriety testing

• Breath, blood, urine or oral-fluid testing

• Alleged impairment

• License suspension issues

• Prior offenses or aggravating factors

Because these cases can move quickly, it is important to speak with an attorney as early as possible.

Penalties for OVI are tiered and increase with each offense or aggravating factor. Recent law changes have raised minimum fines and expanded the use of ignition interlock devices and restricted “party” plates.

1st Offense:

• 3-180 days jail time

• $565 - $1,075 in fines

• 1-3 years license suspension

2nd Offense:

• 10-180 days jail time

• $715 – $1,625 in fines

• 1-7 years license suspension

3rd Offense:

• 30 days–1 year jail time

• $1,040 – $2,750 in fines

• 2-12 years license suspension

4th / 5th Offense:

• 60 days–36 months jail time

• $1,540 – $10,500 in fines

• 3 years-life license suspension

Additional penalties may include mandatory alcohol/drug assessment, electronic monitoring, and completion of a Driver Intervention Program (DIP).

Aggravating Factors and Enhanced Penalties

• High BAC (0.17% or higher): Enhanced minimum jail time (6 days for first offense)

• Refusal to Test: Harsher license suspensions and penalties

• Repeat Offenses: Longer jail/prison terms, higher fines, potential lifetime license suspension

Every DUI/OVI case is different. Depending on the facts, a defense may involve reviewing:

• Whether the traffic stop was legal

• Whether field sobriety tests were properly administered

• Whether breath, blood, urine or oral-fluid testing was handled correctly

• Whether the officer followed required procedures

• Whether there are alternative explanations for alleged impairment

• Whether the evidence supports the charge

• Whether reduced charges, treatment options or other resolutions may be available

• Whether the case should be prepared for trial

DeGeorge & Polverini Law reviews the evidence, explains your options and helps you make informed decisions at each stage of the case.

A DUI or OVI charge can create immediate pressure. You may be worried about your license, your job, your record and what happens next. Our firm provides direct, client-focused representation for people facing DUI/OVI charges in Ashtabula, Lake, Geauga and Trumbull counties.

Our approach includes:

• Local criminal-defense representation

• Careful review of the stop, testing and evidence

• Clear communication about your options

• Attention to both the criminal charge and license consequences

• Defense strategies tailored to the facts of your case

• Preparation for negotiation or trial when needed