Brunswick OVI Lawyer

Brunswick OVI Attorney

Being charged with an OVI (operating a vehicle impaired) can leave one feeling overwhelmed and worried about their future. This is understandable, as state prosecutors take these charges very seriously. An OVI charge on your record can disrupt your entire life, from your job at the Southwest General University Hospital system to your ability to enjoy community events. A Brunswick OVI lawyer is here to help protect your rights.

At DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder, our attorneys have been fighting for client’s rights since 2008. We understand the inner workings of the local court system and have argued the defense of many clients at the Medina Municipal Court, where your case will likely be heard. We take your defense extremely seriously and can do everything in our power to ensure you are given the defense you deserve.

Understanding OVI Charges in Brunswick, Ohio

In Brunswick, when an individual is operating their vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, this can be considered driving impaired and warrant an OVI charge. Since 2020, there have been 83,865 arrests for operating a vehicle impaired issued by the Ohio State Highway Patrol. These arrests take place when a member of law enforcement has reason to suspect that an individual is committing one of the following unlawful offenses:

• Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or a combination of both.
  
• Driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher if the driver is age 21 or older.
  
• Driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.02% or higher if the driver is under the age of 21.
  
• Driving with specific levels of controlled substances in their system, such as ketamine, heroin, cocaine, or fentanyl.

When facing these charges, it can be helpful to make yourself aware of the penalties you may face if a conviction is successful.

When an individual is charged with a first OVI offense, they can be subject to a jail sentence of three days to six months, fines totaling anywhere between $375 and $1,075, a suspension of their driver’s license for six months to three years, and no possibility of obtaining limited driving privileges within the first 15 days after conviction.

Individuals who are charged with a second OVI within a certain number of years of the first charge may face more severe penalties. They may face 10 days to six months of jail time, fines totaling between $525 and $1,625, required drug or alcohol treatment programs, a one to five-year suspension of their driver’s license, and a requirement to use an ignition interlock device.

When an individual has a history of repeat OVI offenses on their record, the penalties only increase. They may face 30 days to one year in jail, fines totaling between $850 and $2,750, mandatory drug or alcohol treatment programs, a license suspension lasting two to five years, revoked vehicle registration, and a requirement to use yellow license plates.

With so much at stake, it is vital that you hire an attorney who can review your case, investigate the specifics of your traffic stop and arrest, and settle on an appropriate argument to use in your defense. It can also help to be aware of certain hotspots where police are likely to set up traffic stops, including Pearl Road near the Brunswick Town Center and exits along I-71. If you have been arrested along these routes or others for an OVI, we are here to help.

The Testing Process for Brunswick OVI Charges

When an individual is suspected of operating their vehicle while impaired, the police can pull them over and test them to see if their suspicions are correct. In Ohio, there were over 14,000 arrests for OVIs in 2022. During these arrests, several tests were implemented, including the following:

• Field sobriety test. There are three field sobriety tests that you may face when first pulled over in a traffic stop. While there is no legal requirement to submit to these tests when pulled over, it is advised that you politely refuse to avoid giving law enforcement any evidence in a case against you.
  
• Breathalyzer test. In the field, you may be required to take a breathalyzer test. You can refuse this test as well, but your license will be suspended if you do. You may also be asked to take a breathalyzer test once you arrive at the police station.
  
• Urine test. Once you arrive at the police station, you may be required to provide the police with a urine sample to analyze your blood alcohol content level.
  
• Blood test. If you refuse both the urine test and the breathalyzer test, law enforcement might seek a warrant to take a blood sample, which can be analyzed to decipher your blood alcohol concentration.

FAQs

What Are the Defenses Against an OVI in Ohio?

In Ohio, several defenses against an OVI may be viable in your case, depending on the nature of your OVI charge. These defenses can include a lack of probable cause to pull you over and arrest you, challenging the legality of the evidence in the case, and arguing that you were not actually operating the vehicle.

What Are the Personal Consequences of an OVI Conviction?

Beyond the legal penalties of an OVI, like jail time or fines, you may also face personal consequences. Personal consequences of an OVI conviction can include difficulty finding employment or housing, issues regarding your ability to travel, issues with any ongoing custody battle, and denial of college applications. Your personal relationships may also be affected.

What Should I Do if I Get Pulled Over for an OVI in Ohio?

If you get pulled over for an OVI in Ohio, there are a few steps you will want to take to protect your rights. First, you have the right to remain silent, and it is wise that you exercise that right. Do not make any verbal or written statements until your attorney arrives. Second, contact a loved one who can reach out to an attorney for you. Thirdly, listen to your attorney’s advice.

What Are the Costs Involved When Hiring an OVI Lawyer?

It can be difficult to estimate the exact costs involved when it comes to hiring an OVI lawyer in Ohio. This is due to the fact that there are many variables that can become involved in a case that will influence the final cost analysis. These variables include the complexity and duration of your case and the experience level of your attorney.

Speak With an Experienced Brunswick OVI Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one is facing OVI charges in Brunswick, Ohio, now is the time to contact a criminal defense attorney. At DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder, we can argue your defense and work to reduce or even dismiss the charges against you. Call our office today to learn more about how we might be the right fit for your case.