What Does DUI or OVI Mean?

Driving under the influence (DUI)—also known as operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI)—is taken very seriously by Ohio courts. A DUI or OVI charge stems from operating a motor vehicle while being significantly impaired by alcohol (with a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher as measured by a breath or urine test) or a controlled substance such as marijuana, heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine.

One momentary lapse in judgment in deciding to drive while under the influence can have a lasting impact on your life. A DUI or OVI arrest in Ohio can result in fines, increased car insurance rates, community service, probation, or driver’s license suspension. If this is not your first offense or if your actions caused serious injury to another, you may even be facing jail time or permanent revocation of your driver’s license. If you or a loved one have been arrested for a DUI or OVI in Cleveland or elsewhere in Northeast Ohio, speaking with an experienced criminal defense attorney is an important first step to resolving your problem.

Among the most common criminal cases are DUI and other alcohol or drug-related driving offenses. Convictions for these types of offenses can result in a wide range of penalties including incarceration, suspension of one’s driver’s license, (“party plates”), required use of a guardian interlock device, court-ordered treatment as part of a period of probation supervision and significant fines and court costs.  Convictions for these types of offenses also can impact one’s ability to maintain insurance; can effect employment and can otherwise have a profound and long lasting impact on many facets of one’s life.

We have decades of experience handling these types of offenses.  For a free legal evaluation today, do not hesitate to contact us.