Stopped for Drunk Driving — The police officer generally will request that the driver take a series of field sobriety tests; and then a BAC test of the blood, breath, or urine, to determine the BAC level.
Refusal to Take a BAC Test — A driver stopped for impaired driving has the right to refuse to take any field sobriety tests or a chemical test (such as a BAC “breathalyzer,” urine, or blood test), however, a driver who refuses may face fines, a license suspension (at times right on the spot), and enhanced penalties for refusing to take the tests.
Going to Court — After a drunk driving arrest, the operator generally must go to court for an arraignment, negotiated disposition, or a trial, as well as the sentencing phase if found guilty.
Charges and Penalties — There are two aspects to a drunk driving or OVI charge in Ohio. The first involves an administrative license suspension. The second involves the criminal charge(s)
Defending Your Case — An operator who defends against the drunk driving charge in criminal court will go through a series of events with the court as the case progresses, such as an arraignment, pre-trial, and trial.
Found Guilty — If an operator is found guilty and is convicted, the judge will determine what punishment the driver receives.
Driving Privileges — Ohio law allows for provisional, conditional, hardship, or temporary licenses (called “driving privileges”).
Your Driver’s Record — It is a serious reality that convicted drunk drivers will have a criminal record. A drunk driving conviction may remain on your record forever, as Ohio law to date does not permit the conviction to be taken off (expunged).
