January 11, 2011 | OVI / DUI Law

First off, your DUI is not a simple matter. It is complex, but not complicated.

A DUI is a misdemeanor of the first degree. It is also the most serious of all misdemeanor charges.

Even on a first DUI, you are exposed to the following consequences: mandatory jail, mandatory fine, mandatory license suspension, a “hard suspension” time where you can’t get driving privileges, up to 5 years probation, random drug/urine screens, fee for and attendance of a 72-hour driver intervention program, additional costs for probation, drug and alcohol treatment, ignition interlock, restrictive license plates. A DUI it is not eligible for expungement and includes 6 points on your driver’s license toward a 12-point suspension in any 24 month period, and 3 years for insurance premiums.

Defending a DUI requires diligent examination of police reports and statements, Miranda rights, validity of the stop, detention, and arrest, 911 records, police videos, checks of the calibration of the testing equipment, and a determination of substantial compliance with standardized field sobriety tests.

This evidence is rarely prepared fully and hand delivered to the defense attorney in court. Most times it requires careful evaluation for missing information leaving the diligent lawyer to seek it on his own.

It also requires evaluation of the State’s compliance with the Ohio Revised Code, Ohio Administrative Code, Ohio Department of Health Code, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Associaton Manual.

Therefore, when selecting an attorney to represent you on your DUI charge, choose an attorney with a history of success in the area of DUI defense.

And remember, if you or a family member has been arrested for DUI in the Columbus Area – give our office a call at 614-827-2000….24-hours a day, 7 days a week. Because now is the perfect time to put a team that includes a former police officer and two former prosecutors to work….for you!