Cleveland Underage DUI Lawyer

Cleveland Underage DUI Attorney

Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, known as OVI under Ohio law, is dangerous for drivers of any age. However, there are specific laws in place to deter underage drivers from getting behind the wheel while under the influence. Because these laws come with strict penalties, it’s crucial that any OVI offender under the age of 21 seeks support from an experienced Cleveland underage DUI lawyer.

Fortress Law Group, LLC: Your Cleveland Underage DUI Team

Even if you feel there’s no way out of a DUI charge, it’s important to utilize all the resources available to you. Exercising your right to legal counsel and hiring an experienced attorney can make an immense difference in the outcome of your case. At Fortress Law Group, LLC, our team shares the knowledge, experience, and negotiation skills needed to combat complex underage DUI charges. Our dedicated team is ready to advocate for your rights and future.

Underage OVI Laws in Cleveland

Approximately 20.3% of the population in Cuyahoga County is under the age of 18, making it clear that these laws impact a large portion of Cleveland’s residents. Under Ohio law, underage OVI cases can either be defined as operating a vehicle impaired (OVI) or operating a vehicle after underage alcohol consumption (OVUAC).

The law is less tolerant of underage drinking and driving to protect others on the road and deter younger individuals from unsafe habits in the future. For a driver over the age of 21, their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) can’t be 0.08% or above. Underage drivers, however, cannot have a BAC of 0.02% or higher. BACs of 0.17% or higher are considered aggravated DUIs and often incite harsher penalties.

A first-offense OVI conviction in Cleveland for a driver under 21 can typically result in a variety of penalties, including:

• Community service
• Driver’s license suspension
• Mandatory substance abuse classes
• Potential jail time
• Probation

It’s possible to obtain a restricted driver’s license to allow you to get to school, work, and any mandated OVI classes. If you decide to apply for this license, you can expect to have to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle. This requires you to pass a breath test before being able to operate your vehicle. Your lawyer can help you assess whether you qualify for a restricted license and help you apply.

The penalties you receive for an OVUAC charge can vary depending on the severity of your case. A Cleveland underage DUI lawyer at Fortress Law Group, LLC can help you better understand your charges and how to fight them.

Working With a Cleveland Underage DUI Lawyer

It is beneficial to both your case and your future to work with an experienced DUI lawyer if you’re facing underage OVI charges in Cleveland. A knowledgeable OVI lawyer has a deep understanding of DUI laws and the special restrictions that apply to underage drivers. They also have strong negotiation skills, allowing them to build the strongest defense possible for your situation. They can also leverage their experience to fight for reduced or even dismissed charges.

A Cleveland underage DUI lawyer can guide you through every step of your case. They can conduct investigations, assist you with license reinstatement, negotiate plea deals on your behalf, and provide you with support as you navigate the charges against you. Additionally, an experienced defense lawyer can represent you in court if your case goes to trial. Regardless of how serious your charges are, it’s smart to have a steadfast legal advocate by your side.

FAQs

Q: What Happens If You Get an OVI While Under the Age of 21 in Cleveland?

A: Operating a vehicle after underage alcohol consumption (OVUAC) cases in Cleveland typically result in lengthy license suspensions, mandated community service hours, probation, substance abuse classes, and even potential jail time depending on the severity of the charges. It can be helpful to work with a Cleveland underage DUI lawyer to improve your chances of securing lower penalties and reduced sentencing.

Q: How Much Does a Cleveland Underage DUI Lawyer Cost in Ohio?

A: The cost of working with a Cleveland underage DUI lawyer can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the experience level of the attorney you hire. You can expect to pay more for cases that involve complexities such as injuries, fatalities, and property damage. Cleveland DUI attorneys typically charge a flat fee, an hourly rate, or a retainer fee. You should always discuss fees with your lawyer during your initial consultation.

Q: Is Jail Time Mandatory for an Underage OVI in Cleveland?

A: No, there is no minimum mandatory jail sentence for OVUAC cases in Ohio. However, this does not mean that the possibility of jail time is removed. Underage drivers who are convicted of OVIs in Cleveland may receive jail time depending on the severity of their charge. For example, if your underage OVI led to an accident that injured or killed someone, you can expect the prosecution to fight for jail time.

Q: What Is the Implied Consent Law for Underage OVIs in Cleveland?

A: When you receive your driver’s license in Cleveland, you give your implied consent to abide by all laws of the road. This includes consenting to chemical testing if you are ever arrested for an OVI. You can refuse to take a field sobriety test without consequence, however, when you refuse a chemical test, you will immediately lose your license for a year.

Talk to a Cleveland Underage DUI Lawyer About Your Case Today

An underage OVI conviction in Cleveland can leave a lasting mark on a young person’s life. At Fortress Law Group, LLC, our goal is to mitigate the damage of a potential underage OVI charge by building the strongest defense possible in your situation. Our team understands how much is at stake during underage DUI cases and is prepared to stand by your side as a legal advocate through every step of your proceedings.

Whether you have questions about Ohio’s OVI laws or you’re seeking representation for an OVUAC case, you can count on our skilled attorneys to be there for you. If you’re ready to discuss an underage OVI case in Cleveland, you can contact our team to set up an initial consultation.

See Related Post:

• Have You Been Charged With an OVI/DUI in Ohio?