Underage OVI Lawyer in Forest Park

In Ohio, an underage OVI charge can be classified as a misdemeanor. The penalties depend on the specific charge and whether it is a first or subsequent offense.

• First OVUAC Offense (Fourth-Degree Misdemeanor): A conviction can result in a jail sentence of up to 30 days, a fine of up to $250, and a license suspension of up to two years.
• Second OVUAC Offense (Third-Degree Misdemeanor): A conviction can result in a jail sentence of up to 60 days, a fine of up to $500, and a license suspension of up to five years.
• OVI (BAC of 0.08% or higher): If a person under 21 drives with a BAC of 0.08% or higher, they can be charged with a standard OVI, just like an adult. A first OVI offense is a first-degree misdemeanor and can result in a jail sentence of 3 to 180 days, a fine of $375 to $1,075, and a license suspension of one to three years. The penalties for a subsequent OVI offense are much more severe, even if the prior conviction was an OVUAC.

It is also important to note that an underage OVI charge can be filed alongside other offenses, such as reckless operation, possession of alcohol by an underage person, or having an open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle. A knowledgeable underage OVI lawyer in Forest Park will work to prevent any enhancement of your charges and will fight for a resolution that minimizes the impact on your life.

Penalties of Underage OVI Convictions in Ohio

A conviction for an underage OVI is a life-altering event. The legal penalties can be severe, and the collateral consequences can be even more devastating, creating barriers that can feel impossible to overcome. 

The direct legal penalties for an underage OVI conviction in Ohio are steep and depend on the specific charge:

• OVUAC Conviction: Fines of up to $250, a jail sentence of up to 30 days, and a license suspension of up to two years.
• OVI Conviction: Jail time, ranging from 3 to 180 days for a first offense, fines of $375 to $1,075, and a license suspension of one to three years. The court can also order specialized red and yellow license plates and an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle.

These are just the direct penalties. An OVI conviction can also lead to court-mandated alcohol education and therapy, a required ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle, and other fees.

Collateral Consequences

A criminal record for an OVI can make it incredibly difficult to find employment, obtain professional licenses, or secure housing. Many employers and professional licensing boards have zero-tolerance policies for these convictions, and landlords often deny rental applications to those with a criminal record.

Additionally, a conviction can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation. The social stigma attached to these crimes can also damage your reputation and personal relationships.

Building a Strategic Defense for Underage OVI Charges

Every case is unique, and we develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. As a seasoned Forest Park underage OVI attorney, we will leverage every possible defense, including:

• Challenging the Traffic Stop: An officer must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over. If the stop was illegal, all evidence obtained as a result may be suppressed.
• Disputing Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs): These tests are notoriously unreliable. We can argue that your performance was affected by medical conditions, fatigue, or environmental factors rather than intoxication.
• Questioning Chemical Test Accuracy: The accuracy of breathalyzer and blood test results can be challenged based on issues with the equipment, the testing procedures, or the chain of custody. We can argue that a false positive was caused by mouth alcohol or that the test was not administered correctly.
• Constitutional Violations: We will challenge any violation of your rights, such as an unlawful search and seizure or a coerced confession.
• "Zero Tolerance" Defense: For an OVUAC charge, the state does not have to prove impairment. However, we can argue that your BAC was below the legal limit at the time of driving and rose afterward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Is It Important to Hire an Underage OVI Attorney?

An underage OVI can affect education opportunities, scholarship eligibility, and future employment. Hiring an attorney who understands juvenile law ensures your child has a defense that considers both the legal and personal consequences. Our team is dedicated to protecting your child’s record while guiding your family through the process with skill and compassion.

What Should We Expect During the Legal Process?

The legal process typically begins with an arrest, followed by arraignment, where charges are formally read. Court appearances, evidence review, and possible plea negotiations follow. Throughout each stage, we maintain open communication so you know what to expect while we work toward a resolution that safeguards your child’s rights and future.

How Do You Prepare for an Underage OVI Case?

Preparation involves gathering witness statements, examining law enforcement conduct, reviewing testing procedures, and building a defense strategy tailored to your child’s situation. We leave no detail unchecked, ensuring the strongest possible representation.

Can an Underage OVI Be Expunged in Ohio?

In some cases, an underage OVI can be sealed or expunged from a juvenile record, which may help avoid future consequences for college admissions or job applications. The eligibility depends on the nature of the offense, prior history, and the time passed since the case closed. We can guide you through the process and determine the best path forward.

Will an Underage OVI Affect College Admissions or Scholarships?

Yes, it can. Colleges and scholarship boards often review applicants’ criminal records, and an OVI could influence their decisions. By pursuing charge reductions, dismissals, or record sealing, we aim to protect your child’s academic future.

Contact Shark Law Firm Today

Facing an underage OVI charge can be overwhelming, but you are not alone. At Shark Law Firm, we provide the clarity, support, and professional legal defense you need to safeguard your child's future. Our team is proud to offer accessible and client-focused services, ensuring your family receives the comprehensive care and attention you deserve. 

Reach out today at (513) 924-4378 or fill out this online form to schedule a consultation.