There could be serious consequences if you face conviction for any form of driving under the influence or intoxicated. This might include jail time, probation, license suspension, and more.
The effects of the arrest or charges can be especially trying for those who need a valid driver’s license for employment or those who need to pass a background check. Speaking to a qualified DUI attorney about the common DUI defenses in Toledo can help you reach the best potential outcome in your case. Call today to schedule an initial consultation.
The Various Forms of DUI Arrests
There are three common ways of referring to DUI arrests in this state, and they include:
- Driving Under the Influence or DUI
- Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence or OVI
- Driving While Intoxicated or DWI
While there are subtle differences in these acronyms, whether an individual is charged with a DUI, DWI, or OVI, they all refer to the same thing: operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Being arrested or charged for any form of DUI has the potential to result in harsh penalties that can permanently alter the course of someone’s life.
For a free legal consultation with a defenses lawyer serving Toledo, call (419) 930-3030
Penalties for Driving Under the Influence
After an arrest or charge for a DUI, a person’s penalties will depend on various circumstances. Under the Ohio Revised Code § 4511.19, an individual guilty of driving under the influence for the first time will face up to six months in jail and pay fines of up to $1,075. License suspension could be from one year to three years, depending on the blood alcohol content or BAC levels.
A second conviction could mean spending up to six months in jail and monetary penalties of up to $1,625. The state could also suspend their driver’s license for up to five years.
A third offense could mean up to one year in jail, fines of $2,700, and ten years of license suspension. Finally, a fourth conviction could mean a felony and spending five years in prison, $10,500 in penalties, and lifelong license suspension.
Blood Alcohol Content Limit
Any person an officer stops for suspicion of DUI will submit to sobriety testing including blood alcohol levels. A person driving an automobile with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent or higher may be charged with of a DUI in this state.
Aggravated OVI Offenses
Any person with a BAC of 0.17 percent or more is subject to harsher or aggravated DUI penalties. This could mean longer terms in jail, significant fines, and extended license suspension. A qualified attorney can answer questions about common Toledo DUI defenses to avoid these harsh penalties after reviewing the case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me (419) 930-3030
The Potential Defenses in DUI Cases
While the arrest for driving under the influence is often stressful, an arrest does not necessarily mean a resulting conviction. An individual can use various defenses for DUI charges. Some of those include:
- Unlawful reason for the traffic stop
- Not being in physical control of the vehicle before the arrest
- Invalid sobriety testing results
- Invalid testing protocol
The above is a partial list of common DUI defenses in Toledo. Ultimately, the best defense strategy will depend on the details of that specific incident and will vary significantly between individuals based on their criminal record.
Speak With an Attorney About Common DUI Defenses in Toledo
Criminal charges for a DUI can be severe and lead to negative consequences. In addition to license suspension, you could also spend time in jail, pay steep fines, and have a permanent mark on your traffic record.
To protect your best interests, it is always wise to speak with a skilled legal professional after being charged or arrested. Schedule a meeting to discuss the common DUI defenses in Toledo and learn how we can put our many years of experience to work for you.
Call or text (419) 930-3030 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
