Columbus OVI / DUI Defense Attorney
Skilled Defense for Drunk Driving Charges in Ohio
Do not ever feel as though you can't fight your DWI charges. It is a misconception that people must accept the consequences and plead guilty to driving under the influence. There are numerous possible defenses that can help you fight your DUI. With the legal assistance of a Columbus DUI defense attorney, you can work towards a positive outcome in your case.
You can be confident that our team of insightful OVI attorneys understands the laws and regulations surrounding your case and are prepared to advocate on your behalf. Let us put our legal knowledge and expertise to work for your future today!
Call The Meranda Law Firm LTD today at (614) 707-4239 to request a FREE consultation with our Columbus DUI defense lawyer!
What is an OVI?
An OVI is also known as operating a vehicle under the influence. This means the same thing as a DUI in other states and has been the term in the state of Ohio since 2004. If a person is behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol and has a BAC greater than 0.08, they can be charged with an OVI. Additionally, unlike a DUI, a person can be charged with an OVI even if they are not actually operating the vehicle. If they are simply sitting in a parked or idling car and are determined to be impaired, they can be charged.
Enhancements to Ohio OVI/DUI Laws
Recent enhancements to Ohio's DUI laws have increased the scope of this offense. Traditionally known as "driving under the influence (DUI)," the state now refers to such behavior as OVI, or "operating a vehicle impaired." These laws not only include the actual driving of a car while drunk, but also cover a wider range of motor vehicles, including golf carts, bicycles, and lawn mowers, and expand the definition of impaired to include being under the influence of either illicit or prescription drugs.
What Are the Penalties for an OVI/DUI Conviction In Columbus And Central Ohio?
A first-time OVI is a misdemeanor that can lead to several days in jail, enlistment in an alcohol education program, fines, driver's license suspension for up to three years, and the installation of an ignition interlock device. When Ohio DUI / OVI convictions occur within six years of each other, the minimum and maximum sentences increase.
Here's a detailed breakdown:
- First offense of DUI / OVI carries a punishment of three days to 180 days in prison, a license suspension of one year to three years, and a fine of $375 to $1,075.
- Second-offense DUI / OVI is punishable by imprisonment for ten days to 180 days, license suspension for one year to seven years, and a fine of $525 to $1,625.
- Third-time DUI/OVI offenders face incarceration for 30 days to one year, license suspensions for two years to twelve years, and fines between $850 and $2,750.
Further convictions escalate these penalties, with a fourth conviction being considered a felony.
In addition to the penalties mentioned above, the court can also implement measures to prevent further infractions. These measures can include yellow license plates, ignition interlock devices, vehicle immobilization or forfeiture, and secure continuous remote alcohol monitoring (SCRAM).
Hear From Our Happy Clients
Reviews & Testimonials
At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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He is a very good lawyer and always knows what he is talking about. He knows his stuff and no matter how bad the crime is he will get you out of it and he will always give you his all.- Jenna Taynor
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Zach did a great job representing me. He worked hard to take care of me in my case. If I ever need a lawyer again, I'll definitely give him a call first.- Rod
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I could not have asked for a better attorney than Mr. Meranda. He was very professional and yet made sure that I was comfortable and understood everything about my case. I am so grateful to have been referred to his office! I highly recommend his office as his rates are affordable, he is very honest, and he is very knowledgeable.- Anonymous
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Zach is a great attorney. He has represented me twice and both times I got positive results. If you need an attorney call The Meranda Law Firm, he's the best.- Frances Benson
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Zach is incredibly professional and will work as hard as he can for you, no matter how big or small your case is. He shows genuine concern and interest in his client and the situation. He is straight forward and honest. Zach was the third attorney on my case and the only one that actually took the time to become familiar with my case. He was not intimidated as my previous attorneys were and his competency resulted in my case ending in a very satisfying outcome.- Rylan Burrie
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Zach Meranda was a real attorney with a no bull shit strategy!!! But he won my criminal case even when the odds were against me and I thank him and his associates!!- Pfeifer
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I hired Mr. Meranda to represent me in a case and he did an excellent job. I am very pleased with the results of the case. Mr. Meranda was very professional and honest. He's is definitely a straight shooter. Thank you Mr. Meranda.- Aaron Jacks
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A criminal case can be very stressful. The Meranda Law Firm can help you with this process. Zack is there to make sure that you get the best personal one on one help you can get. So you don't get pushed around in the system. Takes all the worry out of your case. Very down to earth guy. Easy to talk too. Without Zack I don't know where I would be right now. Thanks Zack; can't tell you how much I appreciate the help you gave me. If you are looking for a lawyer that can take the stress out of your case Zack is your guy- Jeff w
Have Questions?
We Have Answers!
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Should I be worried if I am innocent?The short answer to this question is yes. Our legal system, though endowed with powerful rights and time-tested procedures, is far from perfect. Proclaiming yourself innocent is far from a legal defense, and you will need the assistance of an experienced attorney to gather information and refute evidence. It is a sad fact that innocent people are sometimes convicted of crimes they did not commit. If you have been arrested, a team member from The Meranda Law Firm LTD, serving both Columbus and Newark, can go to immediate work on constructing a strong defense and on seeking to have unfounded charges dropped.
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What important legal rights am I entitled to?If you find yourself crossways with the law, you have important rights that must be protected. First, you have the right to be informed of your rights by police should you be arrested. You have the right to remain silent, which can help you avoid self-incrimination. You also have the right to avoid subjection to an unreasonable search and seizure. Perhaps most importantly is your right to an attorney, and should you face criminal investigation or arrest, you should be in immediate contact with a Columbus criminal defense attorney for knowledgeable and skilled legal counsel.
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Why should I hire a criminal defense attorney?When you are facing a criminal charge, whether a misdemeanor or a felony, your future stands at serious risk. Not only do you face the prospect of jail time, fines, and probation, but if you are convicted you will also carry with you a permanent criminal record that can make such things as obtaining employment, educational opportunities and housing problematic. A lawyer can make sure that your legal rights are well-protected and that a strong defense is mounted on your behalf. Going it alone in the criminal justice system can put you in peril of many unwanted consequences.
