Being charged with a crime like driving under the influence (DUI), operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI), or another offense can feel like your world is crashing down. During this immensely stressful time, a dedicated Bryan DUI lawyer can safeguard your constitutional rights while pursuing a favorable outcome.
At Groth & Associates, our experienced Bryan criminal defense lawyers understand what you have at stake. We know that the consequences of a conviction carry the potential for jail time, financial penalties, a permanent record, and other serious ramifications that could haunt your life for years to come.
Call us today to get started on your defense. We have been serving clients for decades, and now we’re ready to help you.
Our Bryan DUI Attorneys Understand Ohio’s DUI Laws
We possess comprehensive knowledge of Ohio’s complex DUI laws, including admissible evidence, drug and alcohol testing protocols, and various legal defenses that may apply to your unique situation.
Our attorneys have an impressive track record of having DUI and OVI charges reduced or dismissed entirely when the facts and circumstances warrant it.
For a free legal consultation with a dui lawyer serving Bryan, call (419) 930-3030
Potential DUI Defense Strategies Our Bryan Attorneys Can Explore
Our Bryan DUI lawyers leave no stone unturned in investigating all facets of the traffic stop, breathalyzer test, blood draw, or other chemical testing methods. We analyze police reports, body cam footage, dashcam video, and audio recordings to identify any irregularities, rights violations, or lack of probable cause that could strengthen your defense.
Even when evidence seems stacked against you, there are often legal defenses available that can lead to reduced charges, diversion programs, or outright dismissals. Potential DUI/OVI defenses our team leverages include:
- Challenging the traffic stop’s legality
- Questioning the accuracy of field sobriety tests
- Identifying issues with breath, blood, and urine testing
- Raising constitutional violations like lack of Miranda warnings
- Arguing instances of driving impairment due to medical conditions
- Proving the alleged violations did not actually occur
From identifying illicit police procedures to highlighting issues with chemical test administration or evidence mishandling, our proactive strategies provide aggressive defense representation.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me (419) 930-3030
Consequences of a DUI Conviction in Bryan, OH
Being charged with a DUI often means facing severe consequences. A DUI conviction can derail your life personally and professionally through consequences like potential jail time, heavy fines, license suspension, skyrocketing insurance rates, employment implications, and a permanent record.
Ohio categorizes impaired driving charges as “OVI” or Operating a Vehicle under the Influence, per Ohio Revised Code Section 4511.19. This covers alcohol and/or drug impairment from controlled substances like illegal narcotics or prescription medications.
First Offense OVI
For a first offense OVI, the charge is a misdemeanor. Potential penalties include:
- Three days to six months in jail and fines up to $1,075
- License suspension from one to three years
- Mandatory alcohol/substance education or treatment program
- Yellow license plates and restricted plates for repeat offenders
- Up to five years of probation monitoring
Second Offense OVI (Within 10 Years)
A second offense within ten years is an enhanced misdemeanor with increased punishments:
- Ten days to six months in jail and fines of up to $1,625
- License suspension from one to seven years
- At least ten days of mandatory jail time with a high blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) chemical test
- Mandatory ignition interlock device on every vehicle
- Up to five years of probation monitoring
Third Offense OVI
In Ohio, a third OVI offense becomes a felony if the previous convictions were within the last ten years (ORC 4511.19(G)(1)(d)). Penalties skyrocket to:
- 30 days to one year in prison and fines of up to $2,750
- License suspension from two to 12 years
- Possible vehicle immobilization or criminal forfeiture
- Mandatory alcohol/substance treatment program
Additionally, any OVI offense involving a child under 18 years old can be elevated to a felony. Any OVI offense that causes serious physical harm or death to another person will be charged as a higher felony with years of potential prison time.
Our DUI Attorneys in Bryan, OH, Can Fight to Reduce Your Charges or Have Them Dismissed
At Groth & Associates, our legal team will fight to keep an offense as a first-time misdemeanor whenever possible through suppressing evidence, challenging administrative processes, raising legal defenses, or pursuing diversion programs.
But if you are facing felony OVI charges, we become even more vigorous in our defense efforts. The lifetime impact of a felony record can be devastating for employment, housing, finances, and more.
Our lawyers possess the skills to scrutinize every aspect of the prosecution’s case and leverage strong defense strategies to mitigate these increased penalties that put your freedom and future at risk.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Protecting Your Rights During a DUI Case
Facing OVI/DUI offense charges is only the start of a lengthy legal process. How you conduct yourself during this time can significantly impact the final outcome. Our Bryan, OH, DUI law firm provides clear guidance on the proper steps to take.
Adhere to All Restrictions and Court Orders
If you were arrested for OVI, the court likely instituted some form of temporary restrictions like suspension of your driver’s license. It’s absolutely critical that you follow these conditions diligently. Violating bond terms or other orders can lead to further charges or potential jail time.
Our legal team will ensure you fully understand all the requirements and what’s expected. We’ll also fight vigorously to modify any unnecessarily harsh restrictions when possible.
Attend All Required Court Hearings
Your DUI case will involve various court dates and hearings where your attendance is mandatory. Missing these important proceedings can result in a bench warrant for your arrest and other serious consequences.
We’ll make sure you receive advanced notification of all hearing dates and times. Count on our lawyers to prepare you thoroughly so you know exactly what to expect and how to conduct yourself.
Hire a DUI Defense Lawyer Immediately
Taking prompt action to hire an experienced Bryan DUI attorney provides immense value. The sooner we can start building your defense strategy and safeguarding your rights, the higher your chances of achieving a positive resolution.
Your first consultation allows us to become informed on all facts and circumstances surrounding the incident and arrest. We can then begin gathering evidence, identifying witnesses, challenging testing procedures or probable cause issues, and developing a customized legal plan for protecting your future interests.
Call Groth & Associates for Help After a DUI Charge in Bryan
The lawyers at Groth & Associates understand what you’re going through when facing DUI charges, and are ready to be your legal advocates safeguarding your rights as the case moves forward. We lift the burden off your shoulders.
Let our DUI attorneys in Bryan get started building your defense sooner rather than later. Call us now to discuss your case. Our case results speak to the dedication of our legal team.
Call or text (419) 930-3030 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form