First Offense OVI/DUI in Ohio

First DUI in Ohio, commonly known as OVI in the state, results in both criminal and administrative penalties for adult offenders. Minors and commercial drivers charged with first offense DUI/OVI will face different penalties than those noted in the following article.

Administrative Penalties

• First offense OVI carries administrative license suspension of six (6) months

• Ignition interlock devices not required, but in an effort to obtain hardship/occupations driving privilege during suspension period, first offense drivers will be required to utilize an ignition interlock device

• Likewise, treatment or assessments, as well as ignition interlock devices, not requirement of reinstatement for first offenders

Criminal Penalties

• First offense OVI convictions in Ohio carry mandatory minimum incarceration period of three (3) days with potential of incarceration up to six (6) months. However, attendance in prolonged driver intervention program may be used in lieu of incarceration in limited instances

• If BAC above .17, offender faces minimum incarceration period of six (6) days

• Fines and fees range from $250 to $1,000 and do not include costs incurred in completing terms of sentence (such as costs of attendance in driver intervention program), nor do they cover costs associated with license reinstatement

• Convictions carry over and influence future DUI charges and sentencing for a period of six (6) years in the state of Ohio

Getting Legal Help                  

The state of Ohio does not expressly bar reduction of OVI offenses into lesser criminal offenses. Likewise, the legal system affords defendants significant time to contest the charges, while actively seeking dismissal or favorable plea agreements. For more information and insight into this process, including how the case-specific nature of your individual case may help with a legal defense, consult with an Ohio first DUI/OVI lawyer today.