OVI

OVI cases can begin in many different ways. Maybe there was a car accident. Perhaps an officer accused you of swerving while driving. Regardless of the circumstances, if you or someone you care about has been accused of an OVI, you should contact Fogt Law Office. 

What is OVI?

OVI is short for operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If convicted, an OVI adds six points to the license of the driver. 

Depending on the circumstances, there is a wide variety of potential penalties, with charges ranging from first-degree misdemeanors to third-degree felonies. The seriousness of the charge depends on three primary factors. 

The first factor is the type of substance that caused the driver to be under the influence. Most OVI cases just involve the use of alcohol but OVI charges can also encompass the use of other drugs. 

The second factor is the concentration of the substance that was in the driver's breath, urine, or blood. This is determined using breathalyzers or by submitting a sample. Ohio law classifies a driver's level of intoxication as either low-test or high-test. A refusal to test is considered a high-test. 

The third factor is the number of prior OVI convictions on the driver's record. Ohio law typically takes into consideration the number of convictions in the past ten years. However, the past twenty years can also be taken into account for cases involving serious repeat offenders.

What are the Steps? 

OVI cases typically proceed in a few different steps. First, a not guilty plea is entered. Next, a pretrial is scheduled, where defense counsel and the prosecutor negotiate the case. In many OVI cases, a motion to suppress hearing is scheduled. The purpose of a motion to suppress is to prevent prosecutors from using evidence at trial that was obtained in violation of a client's rights. Finally, the case either goes to trial or ends with a plea agreement. 

Hire an Experienced Attorney, Christopher Fogt

OVI charges can involve serious consequences. To ensure that your case is resolved favorably, it is crucial to make the right choice when selecting an attorney. 

Attorney Christopher Fogt has years of experience with OVI cases, from the most serious charges to first-time offenders. Attorney Fogt has helped many satisfied clients through these difficult challenges to reach a positive outcome. 

Attorney Fogt is certified in OVI field sobriety training just like the police, so he understands the proper procedures that law enforcement is supposed to follow. Attorney Fogt also has more than 104 hours of OVI Continuing Legal Education (CLE) training. 

Call (937) 254-2600 or email [email protected] to discuss your case. There is no charge for the consultation.