When facing driving under the influence (DUI/OVI) charges in Cincinnati, OH, you may not immediately think about how such an accusation could impact your role as a parent. However, if you find yourself with these criminal charges while also fighting for custody of your child, it is crucial to understand how one can affect the other.
The Cincinnati DUI attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers can explain the consequences of a criminal conviction, including the potential impact on your custody rights. Our team has over 100 years of combined experience fighting for clients accused of various offenses.
For help, contact our Ohio law office at (513) 333-0014 to schedule a free initial consultation with a skilled Cincinnati criminal defense attorney.
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How Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help Defendants With DUI and Custody Issues in Cincinnati, OH
If you’re a defendant facing DUI charges and a custody battle in Cincinnati, Ohio, we can offer strategic legal assistance to safeguard both your freedom and parental rights.
Here’s how Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers can assist:
- We are skilled at dissecting the evidence against you. Our attorneys will scrutinize police reports, testing procedures, and any other evidence to identify flaws or procedural errors that could weaken the prosecution’s DUI case.
- We can negotiate with prosecutors for a plea deal that leads to a reduction of charges or even pretrial diversion, which would prevent a conviction. This would minimize the negative consequences a DUI may have on your custody situation.
- We will collaborate with your family law attorney, ensuring that your defense strategy aligns with the custody objectives. This gives us the best chance to mitigate any potential negative impact on your parental rights.
We are well-versed in both criminal law and the sensitive nature of family court dynamics, and we will do our best to get you the best outcome possible. Call our law firm today for a free consultation with a Cincinnati DUI defense attorney.
Overview of DUI and Custody Issues in Ohio
DUI/OVI offenses can have far-reaching consequences beyond criminal penalties, especially when it comes to family law matters such as child custody. In Ohio, a DUI conviction can influence custody determinations by casting doubt on the offending parent’s ability to provide a stable and safe environment for their children.
What Are the Potential Custody Consequences of a DUI Conviction in Cincinnati, Ohio?
Courts prioritize the best interests of the child and will consider the parent’s criminal record, including DUI convictions, as part of their assessment. A DUI may result in limited visitation rights, supervised visitations, or, in severe cases, loss of custody altogether. The court evaluates whether the DUI suggests a pattern of risky behavior that could endanger the child’s well-being.
Steps to Regain Custody After a DUI Conviction
If a parent has lost custody due to a DUI conviction, there are steps they can take to regain custody. These may include completing substance abuse treatment, attending counseling or therapy, and demonstrating consistent sobriety through regular drug and alcohol testing.
It is also crucial for the parent to show that they have made significant changes in their lifestyle and decision-making process to ensure the safety of their child.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested For DUI in Cincinnati, Ohio?
Several common defenses may be employed if you are arrested for a DUI. The effectiveness of these defenses depends on the specifics of your case, but common strategies include the following:
Challenging the Traffic Stop
One of the primary defenses in a DUI case is to challenge the traffic stop. Law enforcement officers must have cause to make a traffic stop. If it can be demonstrated that the officer did not have a legitimate reason to stop your vehicle, any evidence recovered during the stop may be inadmissible in court.
Not Driving
Another possible defense in a DUI case is to argue that you were not driving the vehicle at the time of the alleged offense. This could involve establishing that you were merely in or near the vehicle without operating it.
Evidence such as witness testimonies or surveillance footage can support this defense. Demonstrating that you were not in control of the vehicle can significantly undermine the prosecution’s case and may lead to a dismissal of the charges or an acquittal.
Challenging Chemical Test Results
Chemical tests, such as breathalyzers and blood tests, are critical evidence in DUI cases. However, the results can be challenged on several grounds. Issues like improper calibration of the testing equipment, mishandling of blood samples, and the timing of the tests can all be scrutinized to create doubt about the accuracy of the results.
Carefully examining and challenging the circumstances surrounding your DUI arrest can significantly impact the outcome of your criminal and family law case. That’s why it is essential to work with an experienced Cincinnati criminal defense lawyer.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Cincinnati DUI Defense Attorneys
To build a strong defense in a DUI case, a defense lawyer must scrutinize every aspect of the case, from the initial traffic stop to the handling of chemical test results. By systematically challenging the prosecution’s evidence, they can significantly weaken the case against you and achieve a favorable outcome in your criminal and custody matter.
It is crucial to remember that every detail matters, and having an experienced attorney by your side can make all the difference. If you or a loved one is facing DUI charges, contact Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with our Cincinnati DUI lawyers.
