What Are the Penalties for Drinking and Driving in Ohio?

No matter where you live, drinking and driving is a serious crime. Anyone who has faced these kinds of charges can tell you that being convicted of a DUI/OVI can alter your life significantly. Not only will you now have a criminal record, but you could also spend time in jail, pay heavy fines and lose your driving privileges. On top of that, having a DUI/OVI conviction on your record can make it more difficult to obtain employment or keep a job, especially if that job requires driving. There is no question that being convicted of driving under the influence can be damaging. This is why it’s so important to take this matter seriously.

As with anywhere else in the country, authorities in Dayton, Ohio take drunk driving serious and usually will seek the toughest penalties as possible for those who have been charged with drunk driving. OVI/DUI penalties can be harsh and they can have lasting negative effects on anyone who is convicted. So what are the penalties for OVI/DUI in Ohio?

As with many crimes, the severity of the penalties you face for OVI will depend on a variety of factors, including whether or not it is your first offense. If it is your first offense jail time can range from three days to six months. Their are also fines ranging between $250 and $1000 and your license can be suspended from six months to three years. The penalties get progressively tougher with each increasing offense. As for the legal drinking limit, if you are under 21, you are considered legally impaired with a blood alcohol content of .02 percent. For those 21 and older to be considered legally intoxicated, the BAC level is .08 percent.

As you can see, if you have been arrested and/or charged with operating a vehicle impaired or under the influence in the Dayton area, you can’t take those accusations or charges lightly. Likewise, if you try to represent yourself in court you will most likely end up on the losing end. Don’t leave your freedom and your future to chance. You need experienced and professional representation if you are facing an OWI in Ohio. That’s why you should call the VanNoy Firm for help in Dayton. We know how to defend these types of cases and we will fight for you. We work to ensure that you get the best legal outcome as possible. Please don’t hesitate to call us if you are facing drunk driving charges. Click here to contact us online or give us a call at 937-952-5043.