Painesville CDL DUI Lawyer

Painesville CDL DUI Attorney

Commercial drivers work long hours, navigate difficult roads, and pass extensive training and testing to keep their commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs). However, one DUI allegation can threaten a commercial driver’s entire career. If you are facing an impaired driving charge while holding a CDL in Painesville, it is crucial that you hire a Painesville CDL DUI lawyer who can help you protect your career and your future.

Why Choose Fortress Law Group, LLC

Fortress Law Group, LLC, is a dedicated criminal defense firm that has been protecting the rights of Ohio residents for years. Our lead attorney, Matthew C. Bangerter, Esq., has experience as a former Assistant Prosecutor and years of in-depth courtroom experience. By combining his knowledge with our team’s passion for justice, we work tirelessly to protect the rights of individuals facing DUI charges that threaten their CDL and career.

How Are CDL DUI Charges Different in Ohio?

In Ohio, impaired driving charges are referred to as operating a vehicle impaired (OVI), rather than driving under the influence (DUI). In 2025, there were 5,508 crashes involving large trucks in Ohio alone. Because commercial drivers operate large, potentially dangerous vehicles on difficult roads, DUI laws are stricter for individuals holding CDLs.

Ohio’s impaired driving laws state that CDL holders cannot have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or more while operating a commercial vehicle, which is much lower than the 0.08% limit basic drivers face. With a lower legal limit and greater repercussions on your career, it is essential to hire a CDL DUI lawyer if you are facing charges in Painesville.

Penalties for a CDL OVI Conviction in Ohio

One of the biggest concerns for commercial drivers facing OVI convictions in Ohio is how the charge will impact their employment. Many employers will refuse to employ or even fire a driver who has an OVI on their record, making it essential that you work with a Painesville CDL DUI attorney who can protect your career.

A first-time CDL DUI conviction in Ohio can result in a one-year CDL disqualification, while a second offense can lead to a lifetime disqualification. Aside from the impact on your license and career, Ohio’s CDL DUI laws also implement criminal penalties for these DUI charges. The severity of the penalties a defendant receives depends on whether they have prior convictions, what their BAC was, and more.

Potential penalties for CDL holders who are convicted of impaired driving in Ohio include:

• Suspension or revocation of CDL
• Jail or prison time
• Fines
• Enrollment in a drug or alcohol treatment program
• Enrollment in driving education courses
• Continued drug or alcohol testing
• Community service
• Installation of an ignition interlock device

Why You Should Hire a CDL DUI Lawyer in Painesville

A CDL OVI is one of the most frightening charges you can face, as it can threaten your future career, financial stability, and basic freedoms. Trying to navigate a CDL OVI case can be challenging on your own in Painesville, which is why it’s crucial that you hire a CDL DUI lawyer who can build a strong legal defense against your charges by:

• Protecting You Against Self-Incrimination. Upon an arrest, law enforcement may seek to gather any information possible that they can use against you. Whether through an interrogation or a seemingly simple question, speaking with an officer without consulting a lawyer can lead to accidentally providing incriminating evidence, even if it may not seem bad at the time.
• Identifying Police Misconduct. Police misconduct is often the basis for a defense against CDL and OVI charges, though it requires a lawyer’s knowledge of this process. Our lead attorney is certified to administer the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests and is in the Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement program. His deep understanding of these processes is invaluable when spotting misconduct such as an illegal traffic stop.
• Scrutinizing the Prosecution’s Evidence. A lawyer can evaluate whether there is weak or illegally obtained evidence being used against you. Weak or inaccurate evidence could include a misadministered chemical test or mishandled evidence. Illegally-obtained evidence may involve evidence found during an illegal search. A lawyer can file a motion to suppress this evidence, which can result in insufficient evidence for a conviction.

FAQs

What Should You Do If You Are Arrested for an OVI in Ohio If You Have a CDL?

When you are arrested for an OVI in Painesville, Ohio while holding a CDL, it’s important that you comply with the police and make your request to contact an attorney clear. Remaining calm with officers during the booking process, submitting to chemical testing, and providing basic personal information can prevent additional charges or worsen penalties. However, do not discuss the offense or consent to searches with the officers until you have spoken with your attorney.

Can You Refuse Chemical Testing When Arrested for an OVI in Ohio?

While you can refuse field sobriety tests, you cannot legally refuse a chemical test requested after an OVI arrest. Refusing a chemical test can lead to a 24-hour out-of-service order and a one-year CDL suspension. This is due to Ohio’s implied consent law, which requires drivers to submit to chemical testing if they are arrested on suspicion of an OVI. If you are facing chemical test refusal on top of an OVI, hire a CDL OVI lawyer to defend against the harsh penalties.

Will Your Employer Know If You Are Arrested for an OVI in Ohio?

Employers are not automatically alerted when you are arrested for a CDL OVI. However, an OVI arrest is public and visible to your employers. Additionally, it may be required to alert your employer because being charged with OVI leads to a 24-hour out-of-service order, preventing you from driving when there may still be alcohol or drugs in your system.

Does an OVI Conviction Prevent You From Getting a Commercial Driver’s License?

Yes, an OVI conviction may prevent you from getting a CDL, though it may be a temporary disqualification. A first-time OVI conviction has a mandatory one-year disqualification. A second or subsequent OVI conviction leads to a lifetime disqualification. Additionally, certain employers may not employ you if you have an OVI, even if you have obtained a CDL.

Speak With a Painesville CDL DUI Attorney Today

While facing an impaired driving charge as a commercial driver can be daunting, a dedicated CDL OVI lawyer from our firm can protect your career and your freedom. Contact Fortress Law Group, LLC, to schedule your initial case consultation and learn how we can help defend you against OVI charges.

Painesville CDL DUI Lawyer Reviews

Meet Your Attorney

Matthew C. Bangerter

Founder, Fortress Law Group, LLC

Matthew draws on his unique background as a former Assistant Prosecutor and his scientific expertise in molecular genetics to bring unparalleled precision and strategy to criminal defense in Northeast Ohio. Whether you’re facing misdemeanor charges, serious felony indictments, or federal prosecution, he builds defense strategies rooted in forensic evidence analysis, cutting-edge legal theory, and an unwavering commitment to protecting your constitutional rights and positioning you for the strongest outcome in court.

Call (440) 659-1315