June 2, 2022 | DUI

If you’ve recently been charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Cincinnati, you’re probably nervous and full of questions about the repercussions of the charge. Knowing more about what the penalties are and your options to have charges reduced can help you make the right choices for your future.

About OVI/ DWI Charges in Cincinnati

Operating a vehicle impaired (OVI) is operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08%, although there is no legal limit for other types of drugs.

The BAC shows how much you’ve had to drink and can be determined with a breath test or blood or urine test at the scene. The BAC level measures your level of impairment and can affect the severity of the penalties of your charge. 

In Ohio, a BAC between .08% and .17% is classified as low, while a BAC of .17% and above is classified as high.

Penalties for a First OVI/DWI Offense in Cincinnati

For a first offense OVI with a “low” BAC, you’ll receive a first-degree misdemeanor charge, at least three days in jail, and at least $375 in fines. For a BAC of .17% or more, termed “high DUI,” the penalty is at least six days to six months in jail and between $375 and $1,075 in fines.

Either way, the first charge is a misdemeanor. Instead of jail, you may have the option of attending a driving intervention program and installing an ignition interlock device on your car. An ignition interlock device prohibits the vehicle from being started unless the driver passes an alcohol breath test installed on the device.

You may also be required to have special license plates on your car or face a driver’s license suspension between six months and three years. 

After your first OVI charge, your driving privileges will be suspended for 15 days, after which you may petition for limited driving privileges to get to work, school, or court-related appointments and treatment.

A high BAC charge requires a mandatory three-day driving intervention program and possibly a court-mandated educational or treatment program.

Other First DWI/OVI Consequences in Cincinnati

Beyond the fines, possible jail time, restricted driving privileges, and the possibility of a suspended license, an OVI can have other negative impacts on your life, such as:

  • The OVI is a permanent part of your driving record
  • Your insurance rates will go up
  • Your job prospects may be limited, especially for jobs requiring travel
  • You may not be able to hold certain professional licenses
  • You could face child custody issues

Many people may also experience negative feedback from friends or loved ones after a DWI charge.

Can My Cincinnati DWI Charges Be Reduced?

Many people may choose to have a lawyer help them reduce their charges, avoid jail time, or even have a DWI charge dismissed. 

For example, perhaps the breath test device malfunctioned, or you were simply sitting in the driver’s seat but not operating the vehicle.

A DWI/OVI charge could also be reduced to a reckless operation charge and could depend on a few factors such as:

  • Was a breathalyzer administered, and if so, how high was your BAC?
  • Were you involved in an accident?
  • Were there injuries involved in an accident?
  • Were you cooperative with the officer who stopped you, or were you combative?
  • How tough are the judge and prosecutor on OVIs?

There may have been flaws in your case or extenuating circumstances that can help get the case dismissed, but having professional legal advice is essential. 

Contact the Cincinnati DUI Attorneys at Suhre & Associates, LLC For Help Today

For more information, contact the DUI attorneys at Suhre & Associates, LLC give us a call today at (513) 333-0014 or visit us at our Cincinnati law office.

Suhre & Associates, LLC – Cincinnati
600 Vine Street, Suite 1004
Cincinnati, OH 45202
United States