May 18, 2012 | Uncategorized

A DUI is more serious than if you were charged with felony cocaine possession in some counties.  For example, most defendants go to a special Drug Court in some counties in Ohio or enter a felony diversion program.

People attending Drug Court are eligible for straight probation and treatment.  The felony is then expungeable if they complete the treatment program!  If they complete diversion, the case is dismissed!

This option is NOT available for indivduals charged with OVI in Ohio.

If convicted of a DUI in Ohio you face mandatory jail, fines, court costs, and license suspension.  There will be a time called a “hard suspension” where the Judge is not able to grant you limited driving privileges.

A DUI in Ohio is a Misdemeanor of the first degree.  A Judge can put you on probation for up to five years.  A condition of that probation can be meetings with a probation officer who can order random drug and urine screens.

Most first time offenders will chose to replace the three days in jail with a state approved 72-hour driver intervention program.  Additional drug and alcohol treatment can be ordered as recommended by probation.

The court can order driving privileges with the restriction of ignition interlock and/or special red license plates.

A DUI conviction can also cause you to lose your job and limit your employment options in the future.  It is specifically not eligible for expungement.

It will add 6 points on license for two years for 12 point suspension purposes, and cost an estimated $5,000 – $10,000 in increased insurance premiums over the next five years.

If you or a family member have been arrested on a DUI in the Akron, Ohio area and need assistance with an upcoming court appearance in Summit, Portage or Stark counties, give us a call at our 24 Hour Emergency Number at 330-564-1126 for affordable and professional help.  Because now is the perfect time to put the experience of an ex-police officer and 3 former prosecutors to work for you.