In Ohio, OVI/DUI expungement refers to having a drunk driving conviction removed from your record.
Unfortunately, our state laws do not allow you to have a DUI or OVI expunged or sealed.
In fact, your conviction will remain a matter of public record permanently.
An Ohio criminal defense lawyer can assist you in getting other misdemeanor or felony offenses expunged.
However, once you are convicted of operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you must live with the consequences.
That being said, a DUI defense lawyer can perhaps lower or eliminate a DUI charge. Contact one of our Ohio criminal defense attorneys today for a free legal consultation.
Is It Possible to Get an OVI Expunged?
Ohio law specifically prohibits the expungement of a DUI or OVI. The law also prohibits you from having any type of traffic offense expunged.
The only way you can clear these matters from your criminal record is to have them overturned in court. Otherwise, you will battle the stigma and economic hardship of an OVI indefinitely.
If you get arrested and go to trial for DUI, this also becomes a matter of public record. However, if the court dismisses your case or if you win at trial, you can have this information sealed quickly and affordably.
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What Is the Ohio OVI Expungement Process?
Because you cannot get an OVI expunged in Ohio, there is no process per se. In other words, the only real way to keep an OVI off your record is to fight the charges. Having an experienced Ohio DUI defense attorney to assist you provides several key advantages.
If you are convicted of DUI, however, you remain eligible to have other criminal convictions expunged, thanks to a recent change in Ohio law.
Previously, Ohio law precluded those convicted of OVI from having any criminal convictions expunged – even those unrelated to the OVI charge.
But under the new law, as long as you have only one OVI conviction on your record, you can apply to the court for the expungement of one eligible felony or misdemeanor offense.
How Can a DUI Expungement Lawyer Help?
The key to avoiding a DUI or OVI offense on your record is to avoid conviction.
If you are arrested and charged with drunk or impaired driving, contact an attorney immediately.
An experienced criminal defense attorney has multiple options for defending you against DUI charges. Your lawyer will also schedule your Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicle hearing to appeal the suspension of your driver’s license. Your legal team will handle every aspect of your case and fight for your future.
Even if you believe the prosecutor has a strong case, an experienced attorney understands how to build a persuasive defense on your behalf. Fighting these charges may give you the best chance of keeping your record clean.
Talk to an Ohio DUI Attorney Today
Do not put your future at risk by accepting a plea offer or providing a statement to the police or prosecutor. Take advantage of the complimentary consultation offered by Gounaris Abboud, LPA.
Over the years, we have helped hundreds of clients avoid DUI convictions by getting their charges reduced or dismissed.
With more than 50 years of combined experience, we understand the importance of building a strong case. We help you explore your options and, together, craft a compelling strategy for your case.
To schedule your no-cost, no-obligation consultation and case review, contact us today, or call us at 937-222-1515.
