First Offense OVI Lawyer in Lancaster, OH

The Buckeye State imposes stiff penalties on motorists whom it finds guilty of operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI) of drugs or alcohol, including large fines and mandatory incarceration.

However, even the most cautious drivers who have never been charged with an OVI offense can have lapses of judgment. If you are facing first-time OVI charges, I am a Lancaster first offense OVI lawyer who could help you negotiate a plea that may reduce the worst consequences of those charges, or defend you at trial.

What Are Your Rights When an Officer Stops You?

A patrol officer can stop you only if they reasonably suspect that you are committing a crime or have probable cause that you violated a traffic law. I may investigate the officer’s stated reason for the stop and challenge the legality if they had no probable cause to detain you. During the stop, you have rights that the officer cannot violate:

• You do not have to answer questions apart from providing your name and your license and vehicle registration. You can tell the officer that you are exercising your right to remain silent, and the officer must respect your statement.
• You can refuse to participate in field sobriety tests and breath tests. Your refusal should be clear and unambiguous, and you will not face heightened penalties if you exercise this right.
• You should not consent to a search of your vehicle. If the officer seeks to perform a search, respond clearly that you are not giving that consent.
• If the officer arrests you, you can refuse to submit to blood, urine, and breath tests, but a refusal at this stage will lead to immediate administrative suspension of your license and increased penalties if you are later convicted of OVI. A prosecutor will also likely cite your refusal as evidence against you at your trial. Further, if you refuse and have a prior OVI conviction, you could face an additional charge of Test Refusal with a Prior Conviction.
• You have an absolute right to legal representation.

Even First-Offense OVI Charges Can Have Significant Adverse Effects

Under state law, an OVI conviction, even for a first-offense, cannot be expunged from your record. Your conviction will likely lead to higher auto insurance premiums for at least three years after the conviction and may impact your employment and financial opportunities. More immediate effects include:

• Your license can be suspended for 6 to 36 months
• The state can impose a fine of up to $1,100
• With aggravating factors (such as causing a serious accident), you may face incarceration for at least three days
• Your sentence may include mandatory driver intervention or substance abuse programs, which you may have to pay for
• In extreme cases, a judge can require the installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle

As a Lancaster attorney with extensive experience handling first-offense OVIs, I could help you obtain a fair resolution of the case..

Contact Me for Legal Representation After a First-Offense OVI in Lancaster, OH

For more than 25 years, I have represented residents in central Ohio to reduce the severe consequences of a first-time OVI conviction. I am certified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in the proper administration of field sobriety tests, and I use my skills and knowledge to verify that law enforcement has conducted every aspect of a traffic stop in accordance with correct constitutional procedures.

When you need an experienced Lancaster lawyer to help you avoid the worst consequences of a first-offense OVI traffic stop, please call my office for a consultation about your options and alternatives.