OVI - DUI, its more serious than you think, here’s why:

 

1. The Court can suspend your driver's license for a significant amount of time (typically 6 months to 5 years)  and can limit your driving privileges to and from work.

2. Court costs, fines and probation/administrative fees for a first offense OVI - DUI conviction typically starts at  $1,000.00.

3. Ohio Law requires mandatory jail time (or 72-hour driver intervention programs) or even a first offense OVI - DUI.

4. A conviction for DUI - OVI will put 6 points on your license.  12 points in a 24 month period will automatically suspend your license for 1 year.

5. If you have prior OVI – DUI convictions, the penalties for a subsequent OVI – DUI can be enhanced…..typically doubled.

6. A conviction for an OVI – DUI can affect your commercial driver's license (even though you were driving your personal vehicle when the offense occurred).

7. Contrary to common belief….DUI – OVI convictions do not “fall off your record” after a period of time.  Typically, they are never removed.

8. Some employers will not be able to hire you with a prior DUI conviction.

9. The Court can force a person convicted of DUI – OVI into mandatory drug and alcohol treatment in certain circumstances.

10. For persons with multiple prior convictions of OVI – DUI, the court may seize your vehicle.

 

If you are charged with OVI – DUI, you need to immediately seek legal assistance to help you navigate this serious and difficult event.