Kent OVI Lawyer

Kent OVI Attorney

When charged with an OVI (operating a vehicle while impaired) in Kent, Ohio, it is understandable to be grappling with feelings of stress and confusion. These charges can negatively impact your life and disrupt activities such as your employment at Coleman Health Services or classes at Kent State University. When you are facing OVI charges, it is wise to seek the legal guidance and representation of a Kent, OH, OVI lawyer.

Since 2008, the team at DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder has been helping clients fight against a wide range of criminal charges, including those for OVIs. We are here to provide our clients with a clear roadmap of what to expect during their OVI case and make them aware of their legal rights when fighting these charges. You can trust us to do whatever is in our power to reduce or dismiss the charges brought against you.

Understanding Your Kent, Ohio, OVI Charges

In Ohio, the term “OVI” is used in place of the more common legal term, “DUI” (driving under the influence). This term describes the act of operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol. It is important to keep in mind that the state of Ohio takes these charges extremely seriously, and understanding the specifics of an OVI charge gives you a better chance of preparing a successful defense.

In Kent, Ohio, OVI charges can arise just about anywhere a vehicle can be legally operated, but certain hotspots for these traffic stops include Main Street near downtown bars like the Water Street Tavern, especially after events held at Kent State University, and along State Route 43 and Horning Road. If you are pulled over in a traffic stop, you may be charged with an OVI in one of the following circumstances:

• If you are found to be operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both
  
• If you are under the legal drinking age of 21 and found to be operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.02% or higher
  
• If you are found to be driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher, if you are 21 or older
  
• If you are found to be operating a vehicle with a specific amount of controlled substances in your system, such as ketamine, heroin, fentanyl, or cocaine

Since 2020, the Ohio State Highway Patrol has arrested over 83,000 individuals for OVI charges. Turning to the team at DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder can help ensure that you don’t become just another number.

Common Defenses Against OVI Charges in Kent

If you find yourself facing OVI charges in Kent, you may feel hopeless. However, turning to the experienced guidance of an OVI lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Depending on the nuances and circumstances of your OVI traffic stop and arrest, along with the results of any field sobriety or chemical tests, there are several defenses that might be useful when arguing against these charges. The most common defenses include:

• You were not driving impaired. In most OVI cases, your alleged impairment can be demonstrated through any chemical tests administered, field sobriety tests, or the witness testimony of the arresting officer. At DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder, we can work to prove that all of these tests were done in a faulty manner and that you were not actually driving while impaired.
  
• You were not actually operating the vehicle. Even if your vehicle was not running at the time of your traffic stop or arrest, the prosecution assigned to your case will try to demonstrate that you were still in operation of the vehicle. Our attorneys can work to prove that the vehicle was not in motion or that the keys to the vehicle were not in the ignition and, therefore, you could not have been operating the vehicle.
  
• Illegal roadblocks. Roadblocks are often used throughout the city of Kent to catch individuals who may be driving impaired. These roadblocks must be set up in a legal manner, or the evidence gathered during these stops will not be admissible in court. 

FAQs

Q: What Are the Penalties for an OVI in Ohio?

A: In Ohio, there are several penalties for a successful OVI conviction, depending on the nature of the OVI itself. These penalties can include jail time, probation, fines, having your driver’s license suspended or revoked, being required to attend mandatory alcohol or drug treatment programs, or having an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle.

Q: What Is Annie’s Law in Ohio?

A: In Ohio, Annie’s Law is a law named after Annie Rooney, an individual who was killed by a drunk driver in 2013. This law requires that any first-time OVI offender with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher must install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle for at least six months. 

Q: What Testing Errors Might Exist in an OVI Case?

A: There are several testing errors that might exist in an OVI case. These errors may be useful in your defense and can include incorrect analysis or recording of test samples, improperly maintained or calibrated chemical testing machines, delayed testing, or improper administration of a chemical test. These errors could potentially lead to dropped charges or a case dismissal.

Q: What Is an Ignition Interlock Device?

A: An ignition interlock device (IID) is a breathalyzer that is installed in your vehicle to monitor your BAC if you are convicted of an OVI. It is wired to the vehicle’s ignition so that if it detects alcohol on your breath, it will keep your engine from turning over, and your car will not be drivable.

Speak With a Trusted Kent, Ohio, OVI and Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been charged with an OVI in Kent, there is no time to waste. Beyond the legal penalties of these charges, you may also face a wide range of personal consequences. It is vital that you have an attorney on your side to defend you against all of the potential punishments. Contact DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder today to schedule a consultation.