Youngstown, OH OVI Defense Lawyer
Committed to Defending OVI Charges Throughout Ohio
Being pulled over and arrested for impaired driving is a humiliating experience that can have repercussions lasting for months or years. You could face hefty fines, lengthy probation, a license suspension, and potential jail time. Losing your license is a hardship that can affect your ability to get to work, school, and other necessary places. Furthermore, a conviction will leave you with a permanent criminal record that can negatively affect future prospects.
Most people mistakenly believe that a OVI charge will result in an automatic conviction based on breathalyzer or blood test results. This is not true. Like any other criminal charge, defenses can be mounted to weaken the prosecution’s case. However, you will need a savvy lawyer who understands the mechanics of OVI arrests and charges and can investigate the relevant factors in your case to determine their credibility.
An Aggressive OVI Defense in Youngstown, OH Is Crucial
At Law Office of Damian A. Billak, you can partner with a respected trial lawyer who focuses exclusively on criminal defense and thoroughly understands OVI law, proceedings, and how the state works to convict you. Attorney Billak can use his prior stint in the Youngstown, OH Prosecutor’s Office and his decades as a defense lawyer to craft strategic countermoves against the prosecution’s case.
Attorney Billak is neither afraid to challenge the authorities, prosecutors, or their charges nor to take them to court. Whether you face a first OVI, repeat OVI or aggravated OVI, we have the knowledge, experience, and skills to handle it capably. A strong defense requires experience, commitment, and professional skills.
Reserve a free initial consultation with our Youngstown, OH OVI defense attorney at Law Office of Damian A. Billak by phone at (330) 862-8582 or by email on our online contact form.
OVI vs. DUI Charges in Ohio
In Ohio, the terms OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) and DUI (Driving Under the Influence) are often used interchangeably. However, OVI is the official terminology in the state's legal statutes.
OVI charges occur when a driver is impaired due to alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. It also includes having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher or specific concentrations of controlled substances in the blood, urine, or breath. This distinction is essential as it means that impairment is not limited just to alcohol consumption.
You may be arrested for OVI if law enforcement observes driving behavior that suggests impairment, such as swerving, erratic lane changes, or failing to obey traffic signals. Additionally, being pulled over for a minor traffic violation can lead to an OVI arrest if the officer detects an odor of alcohol or sees other signs of impairment.
Guided by Compassion, Committed to Justice
Our Promise to You
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Confidential and Compassionate CounselWe understand that facing criminal charges can be overwhelming. Our firm offers confidential and compassionate legal counsel, providing the support you need while aggressively defending your rights.
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Expert Advocacy in Complex CasesOur firm specializes in defending clients facing serious criminal charges. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the law, we provide expert advocacy to ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.
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Strategic Defense for Your FutureWe approach each case with a tailored strategy, focusing on minimizing the impact on your life. Our priority is to safeguard your future by pursuing every possible avenue for a favorable outcome.
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Relentless Representation in CourtOur team is dedicated to standing by your side in court, fiercely defending your case with unwavering commitment. We fight for justice, ensuring that you receive a fair trial and the best possible defense.
OVI Penalties in Youngstown, OH, OH
The penalties in an Ohio OVI case will depend on whether your charge is for a low-level or high-level BAC, whether you refused to submit to chemical testing, and your past OVI convictions, if any.
A "low level" OVI charge typically refers to cases where the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is between 0.08% and 0.169%. A "high level" OVI, or a "high tier" OVI, involves a BAC of 0.17% or higher. High-level OVIs, also known as aggravated or “super” OVI charges, carry more severe penalties compared to low-level OVIs.
OVI penalties can include the following:
- First OVI: Typically results in a three-day to six-month jail sentence, a fine between $375 and $1,075, and a six-month to three-year driver's license suspension.
- Second OVI: Involves a minimum of 10 days in jail (up to six months), fines ranging from $525 to $1,625, and a one- to five-year license suspension.
- Third OVI: Carries a minimum of 30 days in jail (up to one year), fines between $850 and $2,750, and a two- to 10-year license suspension.
- Subsequent offenses: A fourth or subsequent OVI in 10 years is generally charged as a felony, leading to increasingly harsher penalties.
You will also likely face:
- Five years of probation
- Six demerit points added to your driving record
- Increased auto insurance premiums
- A license reinstatement fee
- A potential court order for alcohol/drug treatment
- Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.