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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There are three reasons I recommend Zachuary Meranda if you are arrested for DUI. First off, he is a straight shooter. Never did he sugar coat my situation. Second, he handled everything while keeping me informed and walked me through everything as it progressed. Third, he got me the result- NO DUI!!! Thanks Zak!- Shane Dolen
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I have nothing but good things to say about Meranda Law Firm, more so Zack. He was a very professional attorney. Made sure that I knew what was going on and that I understood everything. He seemed to be very involved in the case doing what he could to get the best results. Most importantly Zach always made me feel comfortable and was very good about communicating with me. I would recommend The Meranda Law Firm to anyone needing legal advice or any legal help.- Alexandria Trejo
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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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Professional, upfront, attentive, most of all comforting in the fact that the communication was clear. Never a doubt by always respectful. Admired the standard in which the company, more so Zach, displayed. I was so impressed and would if needed use his services again.- Anonymous
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I would give The Meranda Law Firm a 10 out of 10 for the pre-case advice, the genuine concern about his client, and the time and effort that was put into the case from beginning to the end. If there is anytime in the future I would need an attorney Zach has earned my business. Thank you Mr. Meranda for all that you covered and all that you helped me with.- Andrew
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I couldn't have asked for a better attorney. I've had other attorneys and Zach is the only one that actually knew my case and put a lot of time and effort into making sure the outcome was good, which it definitely was. I really think he is one of the best attorneys & I highly recommend him to anyone that needs legal help.- Payton R
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.
