Cleveland Multiple DUI Lawyer

Cleveland Multiple DUI Attorney

On its own, an OVI conviction in Ohio already has the power to leave a lasting mark on your life. However, multiple OVI convictions within a certain time frame can lead to intense penalties and negatively impact your life in the long term. If you have one or more OVIs on your record and are currently facing another charge in Cleveland, it’s crucial that you seek support from an experienced Cleveland multiple DUI lawyer who can advocate for you.

Skilled DUI Defense in Cleveland

At Fortress Law Group, LLC, our devoted legal team shares extensive experience successfully navigating complex DUI cases throughout Ohio. We are prepared to listen to your story, evaluate your case’s unique needs, and build a defense that helps you secure a positive outcome. Our lawyers can not only provide you with integral legal advice and support, but we can also negotiate on your behalf in hearings and defend you in court.

Understanding the Enhanced Penalties for Repeat OVI Offenders in Ohio

It’s important to note that, unlike in other states, driving under the influence (DUI) charges are generally referred to as operating a vehicle impaired (OVI) charges in Ohio. To be charged with an OVI in Ohio, you must be driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. You can face enhanced penalties by having a BAC of 0.17% or higher.

To help deter unsafe habits and repeat offenders, Ohio’s OVI penalties increase immensely with each subsequent charge. This means the more OVIs you’re convicted of, the more harsh your penalties will be. Here’s a quick look at potential penalties for acquiring multiple OVIs in Ohio. The following misdemeanor penalties are for simple OVIs in Ohio:

• 2nd Offense:
  • 5–10 days in jail
  • 18 days of house arrest with electronic monitoring (HAEM) and/or continuous alcohol monitoring (CAM)
  • Fines up to $1,625
• 3rd Offense:
  • 15–30 days in jail
  • 55 days HAEM/CAM
  • Fines up to $2,750
• 4th or 5th Offense:
  • 60 days to one year in local incarceration or 60 days in prison with the potential for additional time
  • Fines up to $10,500

Ohio’s Lookback Period for OVIs

Ohio has a lookback period of 10 years, meaning any previous OVI cases within those years can impact your sentencing for your current charge. If you get six OVI convictions within 20 years, the state recognizes a 20-year lookback period instead. This makes your OVI a felony charge instead of a misdemeanor.

Implied Consent in Ohio

When you receive your license in Ohio, you agree to something called implied consent. Implied consent essentially states that as a condition of being a licensed driver, you consent to any chemical testing if you’re arrested on suspicion of OVI.

Refusing chemical testing, such as a blood, breath, or urine test, during a DUI arrest can result in an immediate suspension of your license. Additionally, your refusal can lead to harsher penalties for your DUI charge.

Recent Additions to OVI Laws in Cleveland

The recent addition of Liv’s Law, also known as House Bill 37, on April 9, 2025, has only increased the strictness of the state’s OVI regulations. Liv’s Law enhances Ohio’s existing OVI laws by strengthening penalties for drunk driving, such as implementing higher fines and prison terms for OVI cases and aggravated vehicular homicide. The Law was named after Olivia Wright, an Ohio resident who was killed by a drunk driver.

Significant updates to Ohio’s other OVI laws include:

• Increased financial penalties
• Lower reinstatement fees
• New Administrative License Suspension (ALS) procedures
• Oral fluid testing to determine sobriety

Road Safety in Cleveland, OH

The city of Cleveland has been focused on improving road safety throughout the city for a while and has recently started implementing new policies to keep drivers, bikers, and pedestrians safer on the road. This includes installing radar speed feedback signs and speed tables around the city, as well as designing safer roads to deter speeding and reckless driving.

From 2021 to 2023, the state of Ohio reported 36,919 OVI-related accidents. These crashes resulted in a total of 2,171 deaths and 2,152 injuries. Taking a closer look, there were 908 OVI crashes reported in Cuyahoga County from April 2024 to April 2025, including 46 fatal accidents.

FAQs

Q: When Is an OVI Considered a Felony Charge in Cleveland?

A: There are a handful of situations that can turn an OVI charge from a misdemeanor into a felony. Aggravating factors, such as causing severe injuries or death while driving under the influence, can lead to felony charges. Furthermore, you can expect your sixth OVI charge within a 20-year period to be a felony charge.

Q: Is Jail Time Mandatory for a Second OVI Conviction in Cleveland?

A: If you are charged with your second OVI in Cleveland, you can expect to receive a 10-day minimum jail sentence. With that said, it’s possible to serve five days in jail in addition to house arrest and/or continuous alcohol monitoring (CAM) instead. The length of the jail sentence increases with the number of OVIs you get. Working with a Cleveland multiple DUI lawyer gives you a stronger chance of obtaining reduced penalties or alternative sentencing options.

Q: What Happens If You Are a Minor With Multiple OVI Charges in Cleveland?

A: Much like in OVI cases for adults, obtaining multiple OVIs as a minor in Cleveland can have a lasting impact on your life. You can expect penalties to get more and more severe with each subsequent charge, in addition to your convictions affecting your future educational and career prospects. It’s crucial that you hire a DUI defense lawyer if you are facing multiple OVI convictions as a minor in Ohio.

Q: How Much Do Cleveland Multiple OVI Lawyers Typically Charge?

A: The cost of working with a Cleveland multiple DUI lawyer can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the number of past charges on your record. Your attorney’s level of experience, location, and reputation can also affect their rates. You should ask your lawyer about their fees during your initial consultation to ensure you’re aware of what’s expected.

Dedicated Cleveland Multiple DUI Lawyer

Navigating an OVI case in Cleveland can be daunting, especially when it’s not your first charge. Luckily, the attorneys at Fortress Law Group, LLC, are prepared to advocate for you throughout every step of your case. To learn more about our Cleveland defense services and how we can help you combat a subsequent OVI charge, contact our firm today.

See Related Posts:

• Ohio DUI Laws and Penalties
• What Are the Penalties for a First OVI Offense in Ohio?