Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious crime in Ohio that comes with severe punishments. A DUI charge can affect various aspects of your life, from your driving privileges to your criminal record and professional opportunities. While everyone knows drinking and driving is dangerous, few are aware of the legal consequences they could face if they’re caught driving while intoxicated. In this blog post, we’ll explain the consequences of a DUI in Ohio, the state’s DUI laws, and how to avoid a DUI charge.



The moment a police officer suspects that you’re driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they’ll ask you to take a roadside sobriety test. If you fail to pass this test, the police will formally arrest you and ask you to submit to an alcohol or drug test. If your blood-alcohol content (BAC) level surpasses 0.08%, the legal limit in Ohio, you’ll face an administrative license suspension, which restricts your driving privileges for 90 days. If you refuse to take the chemical test, you’ll receive an automatic one-year suspension.

A first-time DUI conviction in Ohio can result in a jail sentence of three days to six months and a fine ranging from $375 to $1075. If your BAC is above 0.17%, you’ll be charged with a high-tier OVI offense, subject to stiffer penalties, including a jail sentence of 6 days to 12 months and up to $2,750 in fines. You could also be subject to probation, community service, and court fees, which could add up to thousands of dollars in expenses.

If you’re convicted of a DUI, Ohio requires you to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your car. An IID is a small handheld device that connects to your vehicle’s ignition system and requires you to blow into a mouthpiece. It measures the alcohol level present on the breath and, if it’s above a predetermined level, the car won’t start. You’ll bear the cost of installing, renting, and removing the IID, which could range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

A DUI conviction in Ohio could remain on your criminal record for up to six years, hindering your employment and travel opportunities. Many employers conduct background checks on prospective employees, and a DUI offense could disqualify you from certain jobs, such as driving, healthcare, or education. You may also find it challenging to obtain credit, housing, insurance, and other privileges.

A DUI conviction can cause significant emotional distress and relationship damage with friends, family, and loved ones. It can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and embarrassment, making it difficult to maintain healthy relationships and social connections. You might also experience personal consequences such as increased stress, financial hardship, and a loss of reputation.

Being charged with a DUI in Ohio can have harsh consequences that can significantly impact your life. It can cause license suspension, administrative penalties, jail time, and fines. Installing an ignition interlock device, having a criminal record, and decreased employment opportunities can all be consequences of a DUI conviction. It’s essential to avoid drinking and driving at all costs, as it can be a dangerous and costly mistake. If you face a DUI charge, it’s crucial to seek the advice of an experienced DUI lawyer who can help you understand your legal options and fight for your rights.