Painesville DUI Lawyer

Painesville DUI Attorney

Drivers in Painesville are required to operate their vehicles safely and follow all pertinent traffic laws. Failure to do so can result in fines and other criminal penalties. One violation that can result in especially severe penalties is operating a vehicle while under the influence (OVI), historically known as driving under the influence (DUI). If you have been arrested under suspicion of an OVI, it is crucial that you speak with an experienced Painesville DUI lawyer.

DUI Support From an Experienced Painesville DUI Lawyer

With years of experience helping our community members navigate the criminal defense system, Fortress Law Group is a trusted authority on crafting tailored defense strategies and effectively implementing them. We have a thorough knowledge of DUI arrest processes, BAC testing procedures, and prosecution strategies, which allows us to stand ahead of our peers.

DUIs in Ohio

There were more than 1,100 Ohio traffic accidents that resulted in fatalities in 2023, 642 of which involved a driver operating a vehicle while intoxicated. As a result of these dangers, Ohio law enforcement and prosecutors tenaciously pursue DUI arrests and convictions. Though the intent is to keep Ohio roads safer by deterring impaired drivers, the result of overzealous prosecution can include errors in the process, overcharging, and civil rights violations.

There are two tiers of blood alcohol content (BAC) limits under Ohio law: 0.08 and 0.17. If a driver is found to have a BAC of 0.08 or higher, they are deemed “per se intoxicated,” and no other proof of driving impairment is required. If a driver has a BAC of 0.17 or higher, enhanced penalties will apply due to the level of impairment. The BAC limit for drivers under the age of 21 is 0.02.

Law enforcement is permitted to use chemical tests on breath, blood, and urine samples to determine your current BAC; however, these tests are only part of the state’s implied consent law if a lawful DUI arrest has already been made. You are within your rights to refuse to partake in preliminary alcohol screenings or field sobriety tests, but the penalty you face if you are convicted of DUI may be more severe because of those refusals.

DUI Conviction Penalties in Ohio

Criminal penalties for a DUI conviction in Ohio include incarceration, fines, OVI offender license plates, ignition interlock, and license suspension. The specific criminal penalties you face depend heavily on several conditions, including:

• The circumstances of the arrest. You can expect more severe penalties if you refuse to engage in field sobriety tests before your arrest or chemical tests following your arrest. Additionally, if your arrest was made following an accident where injuries or deaths occurred, the penalties can be especially severe.
• The severity of impairment. A BAC above 0.17 is considered an aggravating factor and can result in harsher penalties.
• Your criminal record. Though first-time DUI convictions can carry significant penalties, the penalties for subsequent DUI convictions are often worse. A third-time DUI in ten years can even result in the DUI being charged as a felony.

Why Hire a DUI Lawyer From Fortress Law Group?

If you have been arrested for a DUI, an online search will result in pages of defense attorneys who could take your case; however, you deserve to hire a Painesville DUI lawyer who can provide a quality defense. Fortress Law Group understands the importance of protecting community members who have been accused of crimes, and our team is dedicated to being a valuable resource. We are the right choice for your defense, thanks to our:

• Dedication. We thoroughly examine the details of your case and then devote all our resources to crafting a tailored defense. Dedicating our resources to your case means a strong defense.
• Compassion. Facing criminal charges is scary, especially when those criminal charges can impact several areas of your life. We can approach your case without judgment or censure, allowing you to feel more at ease as you fight the charges against you.
• Compassion. We are an inclusive law firm that aims to foster a supportive environment for all our clients, including those from LGBTQ+ and diverse communities.

FAQs

Q: Do I Need an Attorney if I Have Been Arrested for a DUI in Ohio?

A: It is highly recommended that you retain an attorney if you have been accused of a DUI in Ohio. Between 2021 and 2023, the Ohio Highway State Patrol issued almost 50,000 OVI citations. Each of these cases required specific defense strategies tailored to the circumstances of the case. An experienced DUI attorney can ensure you have the most effective defense for your situation.

Q: What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Ohio?

A: There are several things that will happen following a DUI arrest in Ohio. After the arrest, you will be taken into custody, and a chemical BAC test may be conducted. Within the next few days, you will be required to appear in court for arraignment, where you will enter your plea. Depending on your plea, pre-trial motions, plea bargaining, trial, and sentencing will follow. A DUI attorney can help you prepare for everything following the arrest.

Q: What Court Will I Go to if I Am Arrested for a DUI in Painesville, OH?

A: If you are arrested for a DUI in Painesville, OH, your case will most likely be heard in Painesville Municipal Court on Richmond Street. It can be intimidating to walk into a courtroom, especially if you are accused of a crime and facing the prosecution. Fortunately, an experienced DUI attorney can help reduce your anxiety by acting as a barrier between you and the prosecution.

Q: Should I Plead Guilty if I Am Arrested for a DUI?

A: It is not often recommended that you plead guilty immediately after arrest at the arraignment for a DUI. Pleading not guilty gives your attorney time to develop a defense strategy and negotiate with the prosecution for a plea deal with less severe penalties. Pleading guilty eliminates the option to explore other, more favorable resolutions to your case.

Experienced DUI Legal Support

Serious, life-altering penalties can arise if you are arrested and convicted of a DUI in Ohio. Fortress Law Group understands the impact this situation can have on your life. Our team can work with you to reach a favorable outcome. If you or a loved one has been arrested for a DUI, contact our team today for a consultation to see how we can support you through this difficult process.

See Related Posts:

• Ohio DUI Laws and Penalties
• How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Ohio?
• What is the Difference Between OVI and DUI in Ohio?