So, you’ve been charged with an OVI in Ohio – what now? The good news is: being charged with an OVI does not mean you have been convicted of an OVI; there are procedures to attempt to reduce your charges, gain limited driving privileges, etc., but only if you have adequate legal knowledge, and that will likely involve the services of an OVI lawyer.
Do not drive!
This may seem obvious, but driving while under suspension for an OVI, and subsequently receiving a violation, can be treated more seriously than an OVI itself. An officer who runs your plates will see the suspension flagged, and they will pull the vehicle over regardless of whether you’ve committed a traffic violation. There are ways that we can get you driving while the case is pending, but you have to wait until a Court grants you that permission.
Administrative License Suspension (ALS) & Driving Privileges
The main concern that will come up first is that your driver’s license has been suspended upon arrest for the alleged OVI. The inaccessibility of work, childcare, appointments, and other necessities that are dependent on your ability to drive feels overwhelming, but there are options.
ALS is time sensitive. This is where your OVI lawyer comes in; do not wait to contact them. According to Ohio Laws & Administrative Rules, you have thirty (30) days to appeal the suspension. If you fail to do so, you lose your ability to challenge the ALS. We stress the issue of timing here because license suspension, through failure to act, can become permanent even if you are acquitted of the OVI charge.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Holders
The BMV is much stricter on CDL holders than regular licensed drivers, regardless of what type of vehicle they are driving at the time of the arrest. You are in danger of having your CDL disqualified if you do not take the necessary steps to appeal your ALS and beat the underlying OVI case. Our lawyers at AJLJ Law Firm are well-versed in the different challenges OVI clients with CDLs have, and we strongly encourage you to reach out to our office if you are seeking specialized guidance in this area. As with the ALS appeal, there are strict deadlines for when you can appeal your CDL disqualification. Getting in touch with an OVI lawyer immediately is crucial.
OVI is a unique area of criminal defense legal practice that requires reliable and knowledgeable lawyers. Early retention of lawyers in OVI proceedings is crucial to the collection and evaluation of evidence, timely motions, and the granting of driving privileges, as well as opportunities to negotiate a resolution that is acceptable to you and your life circumstances. Our firm works diligently to provide outstanding OVI representation by reviewing evidence, filing motions, identifying weaknesses in the state’s case, and helping you minimize the penalties associated with an OVI case. Contact our firm now so that you can have the best chance of getting the outcome you deserve.
