If you’re driving and going to get some drinks with friends, you need to think twice. Drunk driving not only puts your life at risk but also the lives of everyone on the road, which is much worse.
The consequences of an OVI/DUI conviction can be severe, including fines, license suspension, increased insurance rates, and even jail time. You’ll need an experienced defense attorney on your side if you have been charged with Operating a Vehicle Impaired (OVI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Eaton, Ohio.
At Kruger & Hodges, we understand the complexities of Ohio’s DUI laws and are dedicated to providing you with a strong defense to protect your rights and future. Don’t hesitate to contact us to review your legal options in a free consultation.
Understanding Ohio’s OVI/DUI Laws
Ohio has strict OVI/DUI laws, and law enforcement aggressively pursues impaired drivers. According to Ohio Revised Code §4511.19, it is illegal to operate a vehicle if:
- Your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher (0.02% for drivers under 21 and 0.04% for commercial drivers).
- You are under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both.
- You have certain controlled substances in your system above the legal limit.
Penalties for an OVI/DUI conviction in Ohio vary depending on prior offenses, BAC level, and whether aggravating factors exist (such as an accident or having a minor in the vehicle).
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Penalties for OVI/DUI in Eaton, Ohio
First Offense
- License Suspension: 1 to 3 years
- Fines: $375 to $1,075
- Jail Time: 3 days to 6 months (or a driver intervention program)
- Possible Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Requirement
Second Offense
- License Suspension: 1 to 7 years
- Fines: $525 to $1,625
- Jail Time: 10 days to 6 months
- Mandatory Alcohol Treatment Program
- IID Required
Third Offense
- License Suspension: 2 to 12 years
- Fines: $850 to $2,750
- Jail Time: 30 days to 1 year
- Vehicle Immobilization or Forfeiture
- IID Required
The penalties increase significantly with each subsequent offense. Additionally, refusing a breathalyzer, blood, or urine test can result in an Administrative License Suspension (ALS) under Ohio’s implied consent law.
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What to Do After an OVI/DUI Arrest in Eaton
These are the 5 steps you need to follow if you have been arrested for OVI/DUI in Eaton, Ohio:
- Remain Silent: Do not discuss your case with law enforcement without an attorney present.
- Do Not Admit Guilt: Even casual statements can be used against you.
- Request an Attorney: Contact our OVI/DUI lawyer as soon as possible.
- Document Everything: Write down details about the arrest, including where you were, what you drank, and how law enforcement conducted the stop.
- Request a Hearing: You have a limited time to challenge a license suspension, so act quickly.
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How Our DUI/OVI Attorneys Can Help
At Kruger & Hodges, our experienced Eaton OVI/DUI defense attorneys take a strategic approach to every case. We understand the science, technology, and legal procedures behind DUI arrests, and we work diligently to build a strong defense for you.
Some defenses against an OVI/DUI charge include:
- Challenging the Traffic Stop: If law enforcement did not have reasonable suspicion to stop your vehicle, any evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court.
- Questioning the Field Sobriety Tests: Field sobriety tests are subjective and can be challenged based on weather conditions, medical conditions, and improper administration.
- Disputing Breathalyzer or Blood Test Results: Breathalyzers must be properly calibrated and maintained, and blood tests must follow strict chain-of-custody protocols. Any errors can lead to evidence suppression.
- Examining Police Procedures: If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights, such as failing to read your Miranda Rights, we may be able to have evidence dismissed.
- Medical and Dietary Factors: Certain medical conditions, medications, or even low-carb diets can cause false positives on breathalyzer tests.
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Why Choose Kruger & Hodges for Your OVI/DUI Case?
When facing an OVI/DUI charge in Eaton, Ohio, having a skilled legal team on your side can make all the difference. Here’s why clients trust us:
- Extensive Experience: Our attorneys have years of experience handling DUI/OVI cases in Eaton and surrounding areas.
- Aggressive Defense Strategies: We analyze every detail to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Local Knowledge: We understand how local courts, judges, and prosecutors handle OVI/DUI cases.
- Personalized Approach: Every case is unique, and we tailor our defense strategies to your specific situation.
Schedule a Free Consultation with an Eaton OVI/DUI Lawyer
An OVI/DUI charge can have serious consequences, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our attorneys are committed to defending your rights and securing the best possible outcome for your case.
Contact us today for a free consultation, or fill out our online contact form to get started. The sooner you act, the better your chances of fighting the charges and protecting your future!
Call or text 937-733-6079 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
