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Skilled Defense For OVI/DUI Charges In Cleveland

Drunk driving is a serious offense that can impact your life in many ways. If you are charged with an OVI (Operating a Vehicle while Impaired) or DUI (Driving Under the Influence), you deserve to have an attorney on your side who can defend you.

At The Flowers Law Firm, attorney Corey Flowers has over a decade of criminal defense experience. He’s skilled at navigating complex DUI cases and can guide you through the steps necessary to protect your rights and your future.

Understanding OVI/DUI Charges

While OVI and DUI target nearly the same illegal behaviors, OVI is the more official term used in Ohio. OVI charges may also be considered broader, as an individual does not need to be driving or operating a motor vehicle to be found guilty. For example, someone may be charged with an OVI for riding a bicycle or operating a boat while impaired due to alcohol or drugs.

Police tend to look for certain behaviors when making these arrests. Common signs of impairment include:

  • Reckless driving
  • Driving too slowly
  • Sudden stops or erratic braking

Any of these behaviors can lead the police to be suspicious of a DUI and pull you over.

So, What Should I Do If I’m Pulled Over On Suspicion Of An OVI/DUI?

If you’re pulled over by police on suspicion of an OVI/DUI, police will take the opportunity to judge your behavior and further determine whether you are drunk or not. It’s important to remain calm and remember these tips:

  • Be polite
  • Do not admit to drinking or using drugs
  • Do not take any field sobriety tests
  • Do not take a breath test

Breath and field sobriety tests are not required by the law. You can – and should – politely refuse to take them. The police are looking for any reason to arrest you if they believe you are impaired. Even if you have not been drinking and you perform a field sobriety test, a simple misstep could further raise the police’s suspicions and they may arrest you.

During a police stop, they will look for other signs of intoxication, such as:

  • Slurred speech
  • Strong smell of alcohol
  • Fumbling with keys, wallet or other items
  • Bloodshot eyes

Again, even if you weren’t drinking, the police may take your nervous speaking or fidgeting as signs of impairment. If you are arrested after being pulled over, it’s crucial to remember that you have the right to remain silent. When you arrive at the police station, you should ask to speak with an attorney.

Mr. Flowers knows the ins and outs of the OVI/DUI process. He’s familiar with tactics the police may use to arrest you on suspicion of OVI/DUI, and he’s prepared to build a case that will stand up against them.

What Are The Consequences Of An OVI Or DUI Conviction?

If you’ve been charged for a DUI in Cuyahoga County or Summit County, you may face the following penalties:

  • First offense
    • Jail sentence between 3 days to six months
    • Driver’s license suspension between one to three years
    • Fine payment between $375 to $1,075
    • Probation up to five years
    • Six points on your driving record
  • Second offense
    • Jail sentence between 10 days to six months
    • Or a jail sentence of 5 days and 18 days of house arrest, or more
    • Driver’s license suspension between one to seven years
    • Fine payment between $525 to $1,625
    • Probation up to five years
    • Alcohol/drug assessment and recommended treatment
    • Interlock (blow to start your vehicle) required for alcohol-related OVI
    • Immobilization (boot) of your vehicle for 90 days if it is registered to you
    • Six points on your driving record
  • Third offense or higher
    • Jail sentence between 30 days to one year
    • Or 15 days of jail and 55 days of house arrest or more
    • Driver’s license suspension between two to 12 years
    • Fine payment between $850 to $2,750
    • Probation up to five years
    • Mandatory alcohol/drug addiction program
    • Interlock (blow to start your vehicle)  required for alcohol-related OVI
    • Immobilization (boot) of your vehicle for 90 days if it is registered to you
    • Forfeiture of vehicle if it’s registered to you
    • Six points on your driving record

The consequences of a OVI/DUI are high, even if it’s only your first time. The legal ramifications can impact your daily life, especially if your license is suspended. This can affect your ability to go to school or work, impacting your livelihood. In some situations, an OVI/DUI charge can affect professional licenses as well.

You need a skilled OVI/DUI defense attorney to advocate on your behalf. Attorney Flowers is ready and capable of handling these cases. He will work hard to help negotiate the impact this charge has on your life.

Speak To An Attorney Immediately

If you’re facing OVI/DUI charges, it’s important to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible. Mr. Flowers can help you develop a strong strategy to protect you from the serious penalties of an OVI/DUI.

Call today to learn more at 330-598-0599. Or send an email at your convenience. The Flowers Law Firm serves people facing OVI/DUI charges throughout Cleveland and Akron.