Cincinnati First OVI Offense Lawyers: Your Unwavering Advocates
Facing your first OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) charge can be a nightmare, especially if you’ve never been in trouble with the law before. A single lapse in judgment or an instance of police overreaching can threaten your career, reputation, driving privileges, freedom and even your professional license.
At Rittgers Rittgers & Nakajima, we understand what’s at stake and are here to offer the robust defense you deserve. We are Cincinnati lawyers handling first-time OVI charges for people throughout Hamilton County. We bring together over 200 years of collective legal experience as well as strong credentials such as awards, recognition and leadership positions in the field of criminal defense. When you work with us, you will benefit from our unwavering dedication to protecting your rights, freedom and future.
What Constitutes An OVI In Ohio?
An OVI in Ohio is what’s known as a DUI or DWI in other states. It means operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. What amounts to “impairment” depends on the substance involved.
The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for adult drivers in Ohio is .08%. If you’re over the limit, the prosecution doesn’t have to provide any other evidence of impairment. This is called an OVI per se. For underage drivers, any detectable amount of alcohol can lead to an OVI charge.
Drug-related OVI charges can involve substances, such as cannabis or prescription medications, that impair your ability to drive. The vast majority of drug-related OVIs involve cannabis (marijuana). Ohio law sets measurable limits for substances such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, meth, LSD and other drugs. Driving over the limit will result in a per se OVI.
No matter the circumstances, we’re here to challenge the evidence and fight the charges against you.
What Are The Penalties For A First OVI Conviction In Cincinnati?
A first OVI conviction in Cincinnati can result in significant penalties, such as:
- Mandatory jail time for up to six months
- Driver intervention program
- Suspension of your driver’s license for six months up to three years
- Court fees plus fines up to $1,075
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
- Vehicle immobilization or impoundment
- Points added to your driving record
The severity of these penalties varies depending on your blood alcohol concentration and whether you refused a breath or blood test. A felony offense will come with much harsher penalties.
Our goal is to minimize these penalties or, whenever possible, have the charges dismissed entirely.
Collateral Consequences Of A First-Time OVI Offense
The impact of a first-time OVI extends far beyond the criminal penalties. You may face additional consequences, such as:
- Increased car insurance premiums
- Difficulty securing employment, especially in jobs requiring driving
- Barriers to obtaining professional licenses
- Potential loss of scholarships or educational opportunities
- Damage to your reputation
Our team is committed to helping you avoid or mitigate these additional challenges.
How Our Lawyers Can Help During This Pivotal Time
An OVI charge is a pivotal moment in your life – one you don’t want to face alone. We understand the intricacies of OVI defense and will explore every avenue for strategic defense, from challenging the traffic stop’s legality to the accuracy of BAC testing equipment and any other viable angles. We’re here to provide the aggressive representation you need to protect your future.
Start Overcoming The Setback Of A First-Offense OVI
If you’re dealing with a first-time OVI charge in Hamilton County, enlist us as your fierce advocates. We will invest the time to understand every detail of your case. We are well-equipped to take decisive action to safeguard your rights and your future.
Contact us today at 513-496-0134, and let’s work together to help you overcome this setback.
