You need a strong defense if you or your loved one face an OVI charge. Even minor drunk driving charges require a competent approach to protecting your rights.
With the assistance of an experienced Pickerington OVI defense lawyer like myself, you have an opportunity to minimize the penalty or even dismiss the charges altogether.
Understanding how OVI cases work can help you make the right decisions. As your seasoned defense attorney, I could provide valuable guidance and fight hard to avoid an unfair penalty. Call today to schedule an appointment.
Operating a Vehicle Impaired (OVI) is the legal term used in Ohio for what is commonly known as DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or DWI (Driving While Intoxicated). As stated in Ohio Revised Code § 4511.19, it is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The law sets specific legal limits for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and other substances:
Detectable amounts of certain controlled substances, such as marijuana, cocaine, or opioids, can also lead to OVI charges.
As a skilled OVI defense attorney in Pickerington, I investigate every stage of the case to build a strong defense, including the following:
Law enforcement officers must have a valid reason to initiate a traffic stop, such as erratic driving, speeding, or a mechanical violation. During the stop, they observe the driver’s behavior and physical appearance for signs of impairment. If the officer suspects intoxication, they may proceed with further testing.
Officers often conduct standardized field sobriety tests to assess a driver’s physical and cognitive abilities, which may give them probable cause to arrest the driver. However, such testing is not always reliable, and I could challenge them in court.
If an officer believes there is sufficient evidence of impairment, they will arrest the driver. The officer must inform the driver of their Miranda rights before questioning them. If this does not happen, I could represent you as your Pickerington OVI defense attorney and fight to dismiss the charges.
Once in custody, law enforcement can ask the driver to take a test to determine their BAC. Under Ohio’s implied consent law, refusal to take the test can result in automatic license suspension and other penalties. However, I could dispute the test accuracy based on improper administration or equipment calibration issues.
The arraignment is the driver’s first court appearance, where they formally hear the charges and enter a plea—guilty, not guilty, or no contest. I could advise the best course of action. At this stage, it may be possible to negotiate for reduced charges.
If the case is not resolved at the arraignment, it may proceed to pre-trial. During this stage, the prosecution and I can:
If the parties do not reach an agreement, the case proceeds to trial. During the trial, I could challenge the prosecution’s evidence and provide a strong argument that can get the charges dismissed.
If you were charged with an OVI, you need competent legal assistance. As a competent Pickerington OVI defense lawyer, I could help you navigate the case and achieve a fair outcome.
My team and I have handled hundreds of OVI cases and want to use our experience to protect your rights. Call us for a consultation at any time.