Columbus DUI Lawyer

Defending Against DUI or OVI Charges

Those who have been stopped for driving under the influence may feel they have no possibility of fighting their charges.  It is a common misconception that a person must accept the consequences and plead guilty to the charges.  The fact is that there are numerous possible defenses that can help you fight your DUI.  With the legal assistance of a Columbus Criminal Defense Attorney, you can work towards a positive outcome in your case.

Recent enhancements to Ohio's DUI laws have increased the scope of this offense.  Traditionally known as "driving under the influence (DUI)," the state now refers to such behavior as OVI - "operating a vehicle impaired."  These laws not only include actual driving of a car while drunk, but also cover a wider range of motor vehicles, including golf carts, bicycles, and lawn mowers, and expand the definition of impaired to include both illicit and prescription drugs.  A first-time OVI misdemeanor conviction can lead to several days in jail, enlistment in an Alcohol Education Program, fines, driver's license suspension of 6 months to 3 years, and the possible installation of an ignition interlock device.  Further convictions escalate and add to these penalties, and a fourth or greater conviction will be considered a felony and can lead to years in state prison.

DUI Defense Attorney in Columbus

We at The Meranda Law Firm LTD understand that you are worried and concerned about how a DUI/OVI arrest will affect your life.  Our criminal defense team will go to immediate work on your case and will actively seek mitigation of the consequences you might face as well as alternative sentencing options.  We know that there are solutions to merely accepting a conviction and will strive for a better outcome for any OVI/DUI charges you may be facing.

Follow this link to learn more about Ohio's OVI/DVI laws.

Trust us to provide top-notch legal representation after being arrested for operating a vehicle impaired.  Contact a Columbus DUI/OVI Defense Lawyer today.