Ohio Driving Under the Influence Law
In common with many other States, a DUI arrest in Ohio will lead to two cases being brought against the defendant, a criminal case and a Bureau of Motor Vehicles case. If you have been arrested for DUI in Ohio, you have only 10 days in order to apply for a hearing at the Bureau of Motor Vehicles in order to retain your driver's license. It is therefore essential that you contact an Ohio DUI lawyer as soon as possible.
Charges for DUI in Ohio can be prosecuted either on the basis of Blood Alcohol Concentration, which is currently set at a maximum of 0.08% or through proving impairment through “field sobriety tests”, driving patterns or through the testing of breath, blood or urine. A skilled DUI lawyer will be able to handle each of these situations. If your BAC is recorded as being over 0.17% you will face stiffer penalties.
Refusal to submit a test of blood or breath will lead to more stringent sentencing with regard to loss of license.
| Conviction | Punishment |
| First | 6 months - 3 year license suspension. Minimum fine of $250. Mandatory 3 day jail term. Possible license plate impoundment. |
| Second within 6 years | 1-5 year license suspension. Minimum $350 fine. Minimum 10 day jail term. Mandatory license plate impoundment for 90 days. |
| Third within 6 years | 1-10 year license suspension. Minimum $550 fine. 30 days minimum in jail. Vehicle forfeited to the State and sold, all proceeds go to the State. |
| Fourth | Not less than 3 years. Fine of no less than $800. At least 60 days in jail. Vehicle forfeited to the State and sold, all proceeds go to the State. |
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