Avoid Facing OVI Charges in Ohio: Take the Necessary Steps
Facing an OVI (Operating a Vehicle while Intoxicated) charge in Ohio is a daunting prospect. Not only can such charges potentially lead to jail time, but they also carry hefty fines and hefty insurance premiums to boot. As such, it is essential that those who find themselves facing such charges take the necessary steps to avoid them.
If you have been drinking, the best first step is simple; don’t drive. Public transit, ride-sharing apps and taxi services are available in many locations, making it difficult for individuals to rationalize driving under the influence. So before you ever get in your car, make sure you have the alternative means of transport available.
Should you take the risk and drive anyway, you can still save yourself from an OVI charge by taking a few proactive steps. Avoid any erratic driving. A slight swerve or a missed stop sign might be enough for a police officer to pull you over and administrate sobriety tests. Relative to those tests, the best advice is to remain compliant. Resist providing any contentious answers or showing any signs of aggression towards police officers. Refusal to submit to sobriety tests will ultimately make it more likely that an OVI charge will be levied against you.
Furthermore, consider enlisting a lawyer to help you with your legal situation if you are stopped. Not only can a lawyer act as a witness as to your behavior, but they can also provide applicable advice on how to maintain your composure should police officers utilize any sort of intimidation tactics. Lastly, realize that while a lawyer can offer you some assistance, they cannot always avoid an OVI charge.
Yet, even if you are ultimately charged for an OVI, there is still some recourse available to you. Many locations offer DWI programs that can help individuals who are facing an OVI charge. These programs generally involve education, counseling, classes and community service that can potentially lead to the reduction and/or dismissal of such charges.
In conclusion, facing an OVI charge in Ohio is an intimidating prospect. As such, taking the necessary steps to avoid OVI charges should be taken by every individual. Whether these steps involve arranging alternative forms of transport, correctly following the instructions of police officer or enlisting a lawyer, every step should be taken with a calm head.
Given the tricky nature of the situation, education on the subject is an invaluable resource. Those facing OVI charges should consider consulting an attorney, taking part in seminars and doing their own research into the matter. Despite the fact that it involves a few more steps, something as simple as resolving an unpaid ticket could potentially lead to the dismissal of a charge.
Another major factor in the determination of a potential sentence from an OVI charge is the level of risk you pose to others. An individual with a sometimes spotty driving record and a drunk driving conviction could be endangering the well-being of others. As such, individuals facing OVI charges should pay special attention to their conduct during the remainder of their sentence.
Moreover, the quality of ones defense could also sway a courts decision. An experienced lawyer is a must when facing an OVI charge. Such a lawyer could also provide advice on the construction of ones case. These details will enable you to determine whether the evidence is sufficient to prove a conviction and which mitigating factors require attention.
In addition, it may help to treat any potential OVI charge as a learning opportunity. Having a better understanding of how to behave and respond if you are pulled over could potentially prevent similar charges in the future. If apprehended, it goes without saying that one should remain polite, cooperative and courteous. Furthermore, it is important to remember that things said can and will be used against you in court.
Attending educational programs or enrolling in state-approved courses can be another sound precaution. By taking such courses, individuals may find themselves in a better position to secure a plea agreement. Additionally, drug and alcohol screenings can also help to demonstrate accountability and a willingness to change.
Finally, the other option for those facing an OVI charge is to pay the penalties associated with the charge and move forward. In many cases, individuals may be offered a plea deal that involves paying a fine and providing community services. Paying the fine in the required timeframe is essential toward avoiding further legal issues.
Those who find themselves facing an OVI charge in Ohio must understand the consequences. Taking the necessary steps and leveraging knowledge can be key toward avoiding a conviction or minimizing the resulting penalties. Whether its consulting an experienced lawyer, taking an educational course or enrolling in drug and alcohol screenings, taking preventative steps is paramount toward tackling any OVI charge.
