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Waynesville, Ohio DUI Lawyers

Driving under the influence (DUI) and operating a vehicle while impaired (OVI) are synonyms, and both represent one of the most common criminal offenses in the country. If the State charges you with OVI, it can significantly affect you and your family.

Some aspects of these charges hinge on objective findings related to the blood alcohol content (BAC), urine analysis, and chemical breath tests. However many factors impact whether a finding of impairment is legally sound. In addition to invalid chemical DUI testing, constitutional violations can affect whether the State has enough evidence to get a conviction.

The Waynesville DUI lawyers at Gounaris Abboud, LPA, provide excellent representation for those charged with OVI in Ohio. Contact an OVI lawyer at our firm to discuss fighting these charges.

Fill out our online form or call (937) 729-3575 today for a free consultation.

Warren County, Ohio DWI Cases

A three-year analysis of court records around Waynesville, Ohio, revealed that the court had experienced an overall increase in the total number of criminal case filings.

Recent data indicates that in Warren County in 2021, there were:

  • 2578 total criminal cases filed
  • 402 OVI cases filed
  • 24% of OVI offenders in the county were placed on probation

In addition, Warren County collects thousands of dollars in fines and forfeitures yearly related to OVI (also known as DUI) offenses.

Moreover, according to national data on drunk driving for 2019, in Ohio, there were the following:

  • 47 arrests for driving under the influence under 18 years old
  • 12,301 total arrests for driving under the influence
  • 4595 total liquor law arrests
  • 5060 drunkenness arrests

Nearly 70% of alcohol-impaired fatalities in Ohio involved drivers who had a BAC of .15% or greater. Experienced Waynesville DUI defense attorneys provide invaluable advice, legal representation, and defense strategies to those accused of drunk driving.

Ohio Drunk and Impaired Driving Laws

In Ohio, various statutes govern and prohibit intoxicated driving. Under the statute, OVI, DUI, and DWI generally refer to the same type of conduct: operating a vehicle under the influence or while impaired by drugs or alcohol.

OVI charges typically arise under the following circumstances:

  • The driver had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or greater, sometimes referred to as a “per se” OVI;
  • The driver had a certain amount of controlled substances in their system;
  • The driver was exhibiting impairment because of drugs or alcohol to the extent that it “adversely affected” and “impaired” the driver’s cognitive functioning or reactions to events on the road.

Ohio maintains strict “implied consent” laws, which require all lawfully arrested motorists to submit to chemical testing to determine the amount of drugs or alcohol in their system.

The Impact of an OVI Conviction in Waynesville

There are various criminal, civil, and administrative penalties for drunk driving in Waynesville.

The penalties for the first, second, and third convictions include the following:

  • First Offense: 3 days to 6 months in jail, fines ranging from $375 to $1,075, and potential license suspension;
  • Second Offense: 10 days to 6 months in jail, fines ranging from $525 to $1625, and a potential license suspension of up to 7 years;
  • Third Offense: 30 days up to a year in jail, fines ranging from $850 to $2750, and a potential license suspension of up to 12 years.

Habitual offenders and those operating vehicles with a high BAC may face additional penalties. A Waynesville DUI defense lawyer can help those facing these charges and penalties.

Collateral Consequences of OVI in Ohio

In addition to criminal, administrative, and civil penalties, those arrested and charged with drunk driving may experience significant collateral consequences.

Such consequences could include the following:

  • Insurance rates
  • Employment opportunities
  • Academic scholarships
  • Athletic opportunities and scholarships
  • Custody agreements

However, convictions are not inevitable. An experienced Waynesville DUI lawyer can work towards dismissal, charge reductions, reduced sentences, and alternatives to incarceration.

Contact a Waynesville DUI Law Firm to Get Started on Your Defense Today

If you’ve recently been arrested for driving under the influence, having a DUI attorney in Waynesville, Ohio, fighting for you can make a big difference in how your case turns out.

The Waynesville DUI lawyers at Gournaris Abboud, LPA, have over 40 years of combined experience defending the rights and freedoms of clients charged with all types of impaired driving offenses. With our help, you can rest assured that your case, your future, and your freedom are in good hands.

To schedule a free consultation with a DUI attorney today, call us at (937) 729-3575. You can also reach us through our online contact form.

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