What are the Penalties for a First Offense DUI in Ohio?
The potential penalties you could face on a first DUI charge in Ohio depends on whether you took a breath ...
Driving Under the Influence, more commonly referred to as a DUI, has changed to a new acronym in the state of Ohio. The state’s new acronym is OVI, Operating a Vehicle Impaired. This updated version more accurately reflects Ohio’s DUI OVI laws. First, you do not need to be “driving” in order to be charged with DUI or OVI. Second, a “vehicle” in Ohio includes traditional motorized vehicles as well as bicycles, golf carts, and lawn mowers. Finally, “impaired” now includes drugs of abuse, including prescription drugs. The entire Ohio DUI/Ohio OVI statute can be found at Ohio Revised Code section 4511.19.
In the event that you are operating a vehicle under the influence, you may quickly find yourself in need of a OVI/DUI attorney. If an officer has probable cause, you can be arrested and face OVI/DUI charges. At this point, you will be fingerprinted, have your photo taken and be placed in a holding cell. You may even find yourself spending the night in jail after a OVI/DUI arrest. Now is the time to begin thinking about your OVI/DUI defense.
Annie’s Law significantly increases the penalties for OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) convictions in Ohio. It expands the “look-back” period for prior offenses from 6 to 10 years, meaning repeat offenders face harsher consequences. First-time OVI offenders may now be required to install ignition interlock devices as a condition of license reinstatement. The law also imposes longer mandatory minimum license suspensions and stricter penalties for violating interlock requirements.
However, individuals who comply with interlock rules may benefit from reduced restrictions and faster reinstatement. These changes reflect Ohio’s commitment to curbing impaired driving while offering incentives for responsible behavior. If you’re facing DUI or OVI charges in Bowling Green or Northwest Ohio, understanding how Annie’s Law affects your case is critical—and working with an experienced DUI defense lawyer can help protect your rights and minimize penalties.
The law office of Skip Potter has one of the more impressive performance records as a DUI lawyer in the Northwest Ohio area, including Bowling Green, Findlay, Napoleon, Perrysburg, North Baltimore, Fremont and Fostoria. If you are facing DUI charges, we can assist with reducing and even removing all charges associated with the misdemeanor or felony offense of a DUI/OVI.
As an OVI/ DUI defense lawyer, Skip Potter is skilled in negotiating alternatives to jail and reducing charges. Our areas of expertise include the following in support of our attempts to either vacate the charge or reduce the sentence:
If you are facing an OVI/DUI arrest, our office is available 24/7, day or night. For a free DUI defense consultation to discuss your drunk driving arrest, contact Skip Potter at 419-353-SKIP or contact us online.
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