You could face severe criminal penalties and collateral fallout when you have been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or operating a vehicle while impaired (OVI).
But with help from our reputable Troy DUI defense lawyers at Dungan & LeFevre, you could get your life back on track.
How a DUI Defense Lawyer in Troy Will Help
Having a powerful Troy DUI defense attorney working for you could make all the difference in the outcome of your case. It would help if you had a dedicated legal professional who would take your case seriously and fight for your freedom.
We Have Strong Relationships With Court Officials
Our firm has years of experience handling DUI and other criminal cases. We have extensive relationships with court officials, including prosecutors and judges.
When it is time for you to bring your case to court or negotiate a plea agreement, the state may be more willing to work with you when they know you have our firm advocating for your rights.
We Analyze Your Defense Options
It is essential to consider all your legal options. In some instances, obtaining a plea agreement for your DUI may be in your best interest. In others, going to court is a better option.
Our firm will be sure to carefully examine the evidence in your case to determine how to approach your defense strategy best.
We Give Your Case the Attention it Deserves
You can work with a public defender when charged with any crime. However, doing so could be the worst decision you make for your case. The skill set of public defenders is fine.
However, public defenders can be overwhelmed by case volume. When you have our DUI defense attorneys working for you, you can rely on our team to prioritize your needs and devote the time required to build a compelling case.
When Can You Be Arrested for Drunk Driving?
Any time you are accused of being impaired, whether by alcohol, controlled substance, or even fatigue, you can be arrested on OVI charges.
In DUI cases, you will generally face drunk driving charges if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels reach .08% or greater.
However, police can arrest you with BAC levels less than .08% if your intoxication levels are so severe that you cannot operate your vehicle safely.
Anyone with BAC levels of .17% or greater may face higher-level charges and penalties if convicted.
How Are DUIs Charged in Ohio?
Ohio treats OVI charges as “wobbler offenses.” Wobbler crimes toe the line between misdemeanors and felonies. Specific details can determine which level of crime you receive.
Misdemeanor DUIs
Misdemeanor DUIs are less severe than felony DUIs. You’re more likely to receive a misdemeanor charge if you have never been charged with drunk driving or operating a vehicle while impaired.
Your charges may also be more lenient if no one suffered severe bodily injury or was killed. Other factors that could determine whether you are prosecuted at the misdemeanor or felony level include:
- Your criminal history
- Whether a child was involved
- What your BAC levels were measured at
- Whether in firearm was involved
Felony DUIs
Felony-level OVI charges are more likely if you have multiple DUI convictions on your record or your BAC levels were at .17% or more.
Suppose anyone was seriously injured or suffered fatal injuries due to your intoxication or impairment. You may also face felony charges and other related offenses, such as vehicular manslaughter, vehicular homicide, or vehicular assault.
What Happens If You Are Convicted on a DUI charge?
The penalties you will face if you are convicted of an OVI in Troy can vary based on whether there are aggravating or mitigating factors present, your criminal record, and more. However, these are some of the most common types of criminal and collateral consequences associated with DUI convictions:
Incarceration
If you’re convicted of a DUI, you could be incarcerated, and the sentence will depend on the level of the convicted charge. Misdemeanor charges generally result in jail time, and you’ll likely be sent to prison for felony charges.
License Suspension and Ignition Interlock Devices
Anyone found guilty of a felony or misdemeanor DUI can expect to have their driver’s license suspended. The judge may order an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle, often at their own expense.
The length of time your driver’s license will be suspended is based on the level of your DUI charge. Someone convicted of a first-degree misdemeanor DUI could expect a license suspension of up to three years.
You might also find yourself dealing with a license suspension if you refuse to adhere to Ohio’s implied consent laws, which require you to submit to chemical blood alcohol testing when you are under suspicion of an OVI.
Fines and Restitution
You may be ordered to pay restitution to any victims if you are convicted. The court will also impose a fine. Misdemeanor-level DUI charges often carry signs of approximately $1,075. Conversely, felony-level OVI offenses carry penalties not to exceed $10,500.
Insurance Complications
Anyone convicted of high-risk traffic violations must carry SR-22 insurance coverage in Ohio.
Insurance companies don’t like covering high-risk drivers. Your auto insurance rates will likely increase dramatically, to the point where you may not be able to afford them anymore.
If you cannot afford insurance coverage, it may be difficult or impossible to provide for your family.
Court-Ordered Programs
There is a wide array of court-ordered programs the state may require you to participate in after you have been convicted of an OVI in Troy, like:
- Drug or alcohol rehabilitation
- Anger management
- Group therapy
- Mental health counseling
- A MADD VIP program
- DUI school
- Driver retraining
What to Expect after a DUI
There are penalties you can face after a DUI conviction. OVI charges are not eligible for expungement, meaning they stay on your record for life.
With an OVI on your criminal record, you may miss out on job opportunities, lose your job, have your professional license suspended, or face other career restrictions.
You may also have trouble maintaining relationships with family and friends. You might face deportation or citizenship issues, and even your child custody rights could be restricted.
What Should I Do After a DUI Arrest?
When the police first stop you in Troy, it is vital to remain cooperative. Your next steps will be critical. Remember that law enforcement may determine you need to forfeit your vehicle so it can be towed to a local impound lot.
You should not, at any point in time, attempt to resist arrest. You risk additional criminal charges if you do.
Do Not Speak to the Police
Never speak to the police when you are suspected of committing an OVI. You may say something self-incriminating that could be used against you.
You have the right to remain silent. Inform the police that you will not answer law enforcement’s questions during interrogation without your DUI defense attorney.
Consent to Chemical BAC Testing
You must consent to chemical BAC testing. Technically, under the law, you have the authority to refuse. However, you may find your driver’s license suspended for a mandatory minimum of one year if you violate Ohio’s implied consent laws.
Instead, agree to chemical BAC testing and have your attorney figure out how to challenge your test results as part of your defense strategy.
Call Your Troy DUI Attorney for Help Right Away
Contact your Troy DUI defense lawyer as soon as you can.
Dungan & LeFevre needs to get started on your case quickly so we can get you released from jail and start figuring out which defenses will produce the most favorable outcome.
You should not spend another minute incarcerated when our team can help arrange bail and get you back home to your family.
Meet With a DUI Defense Lawyer in Troy Today
When you have been arrested for a suspected OVI, taking charge of your defense is crucial to protect your future. Do not wait. Get in touch with our experienced and knowledgeable Troy DUI defense lawyers at Dungan & LeFevre today to start strategizing your defense.
You can reach us through our quick contact form or by phone at 937-770-6225 to schedule your no-obligation consultation today.