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The state of Ohio takes drinking and driving seriously. For example, even first-time offenders face up to six months in jail and a license suspension of up to three years. For this reason, it’s essential to take criminal charges seriously, which means seeking quality legal counsel from a seasoned DUI attorney. It also means gaining a comprehensive understanding of the proceedings, so you know what to expect along the way.

Why Fight the Charges With a DUI Attorney?

1. A Conviction Is Not Imminent

Even if you think police gathered substantial evidence against you, that does not necessarily mean a DUI conviction is inevitable. Depending on the circumstances of the arrest, an attorney may be able to frame a valid defense around a procedural error. For example, the officer might have failed to calibrate the breathalyzer device properly or administer the field sobriety tests according to established protocol.

2. A Plea Bargain May Be Possible

DUI attorneyEven if police did not make any errors during the traffic stop or arrest, it may still be possible to negotiate with the prosecutor for lesser charges. There are several possible outcomes of plea bargaining with the help of a seasoned lawyer. You may be able to plead guilty to a lesser offense, dismiss one charge in exchange for pleading guilty to another, or negotiate for a lesser sentencing following a conviction.

3. A Criminal Record Has Lasting Repercussions

The minimum penalties for a first-time DUI conviction in Ohio include three days in jail, a $250 fine, and a six-month license suspension. If these punishments do not seem that severe, you may be considering pleading guilty and accepting the outcome. However, even if a judge orders the minimum penalties, having a DUI conviction on your record can affect everything from your employment opportunities to your auto insurance rates. It also means that you will face more severe penalization if you are ever charged with driving under the influence again.

 

If you have been accused of driving under the influence, turn to James F. Bogen, Attorney at Law for quality legal representation. Based in Cincinnati, OH, this DUI attorney has more than a decade of experience helping clients fight criminal charges, offering the aggressive representation needed to get results. Visit the firm online to learn about all the legal services they provide, or call (513) 503-7251 to schedule a case evaluation today.  

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