Minimizing the Consequences of a DUI Arrest
If you were arrested in Lorain County or elsewhere in Northeast Ohio for DUI, DWI, OVI or impaired driving, the experienced Elyria defense attorneys at Gemelas, Wilson, Merrill & Fritz Co. LPA aggressively protect your rights – and they work hard to preserve your driving privileges.
Our lawyers use their more than 100 years of combined experience, broad knowledge of DUI law, background as successful prosecutors and attentive personal service to give you your best chance of success.
We know how many things can go wrong with a DUI arrest – when a pre-existing medical condition, such as an allergy, is mistaken by police as probable cause to stop you for erratic driving; defects in breath testing equipment at arrest scenes; dangerous roads; inclement weather; and malfunctions by your motor vehicle.
Gemelas, Wilson, Merrill & Fritz Co. LPA represent first-time and habitual offenders administratively and criminally against charges of breath test refusal, driving with license suspended or revoked, DUI drug charges, and if a drunk driving accident involves serious or fatal injuries, DUI vehicular manslaughter and vehicular homicide.
We skillfully negotiate to have your charges reduced or dismissed and investigate your arrest for any sign that law enforcement overstepped its bounds. In the event of conviction, we can recommend lighter alternative punishments that don’t mar your record.
We do whatever we can to put you back on the road, so you can continue to get to your job and provide for your family — in addition to helping you avoid harsh punishments such as jail time, substantial fines, driver’s license suspension, alcohol education, mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device on your vehicle, and immobilization or forfeiture of your car or truck.
Our law firm also represents over-the-road truck drivers whose routes take them through northeast Ohio. If you are a truck driver who has been cited for speeding or traffic violations, we can handle your legal problem without you being present, to save money, time and points.
Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Defense In Ohio
Are you facing a DUI charge in Ohio? When you have questions, NAPNAME can help you find the answers.
What are the penalties for a DUI conviction in Ohio?
Depending upon whether your conviction is a first offense or subsequent offense, your blood alcohol content (BAC) at the time of arrest and whether there are any other aggravating factors involved, the penalties for a DUI can include:
- Three days to 36 months in prison
- Several hundred to several thousand dollars in fines
- License suspension for one to 12 years
- Mandatory treatment programs
- Restricted yellow license plates
- Ignition interlock device on vehicles
It is also important to note that DUI/OVI convictions cannot be expunged in Ohio. That makes it particularly critical to avoid a conviction whenever possible.
Can I refuse a breathalyzer test in Ohio?
Refusing a breathalyzer test in Ohio can lead to legal issues. Prior to an arrest, you can decline to participate in chemical testing without automatic penalties. If you have been arrested on suspicion of DUI/OVI, you cannot refuse a breathalyzer or other chemical test meant to determine your BAC without facing automatic penalties, including the immediate suspension of your driver’s license for at least one year. A refusal to take a breathalyzer test could also be used in court as evidence to charge you with a DUI.
Can a DUI charge be reduced or dismissed in Ohio?
Yes. With a skilled DUI defense attorney, it is possible to reduce criminal charges for drunk driving. There are several common defense options against DUI charges, including:
- Lack of evidence: There may not be enough evidence to prove that a driver was inebriated during a traffic stop.
- Procedural errors: A mistake may have been made during an arrest, such as a violation of the driver’s rights.
- Low BAC: A driver’s BAC may have been too low during a traffic stop to lead to an arrest.
During a criminal trial, our attorneys can help negotiate for lower charges or even a dismissal of your case. It may be possible to enter into a plea bargain to lower fines, limit jail time and reduce the impact on driving privileges. Instead of going to jail, you may be ordered to attend a Driver Intervention Program (DIP) or be placed on probation. Our attorneys can help you explore your defense options.
Don’t surrender your rights and freedom to travel without a fight. Gemelas, Wilson, Merrill & Fritz Co. LPA will fight right alongside you. We are your responsive neighborhood law firm that offers personalized approaches to your unique legal concerns.
Contact us. Our Elyria DUI lawyers offer free initial consultations. Arrange yours today at 888-506-0340, toll free, or by email.