Wrongful Entrustment Charges in Ohio and How We Can Defend You

If you own a motor vehicle and permit someone else to drive it while their driving privileges are suspended, you will face an offense known as Wrongful Entrustment. An incident of wrongful entrustment typically happens under a few specific circumstances. As a vehicle owner in Ohio, you must know that you can be held accountable if you allow someone to take the wheel when:

• The person driving your car does not possess a valid driver’s license, commercial driver’s license (CDL), driving permit, or recognized non-resident driving privileges.
• The driving license of the individual in question has been officially suspended.
• The driver lacks any proof of financial responsibility or the mandatory auto insurance.
• The individual is operating the vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Allowing an individual to operate your car under any of the aforementioned conditions is a very serious offense. Consequently, you will be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor, which carries consequences comparable to severe OVI/DUI charges. When navigating a complicated legal situation like this, obtaining immediate legal assistance is critical. To protect your future, you need to consult with a knowledgeable St. Clairsville OVI attorney. At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we have successfully navigated hundreds of similar cases, always striving to help our clients secure the most favorable outcome. Therefore, if you or a loved one is currently facing a wrongful entrustment charge, speaking with our legal team right away is essential.

Situations Resulting in Wrongful Entrustment Charges

The circumstances outlined above frequently lead to a wrongful entrustment violation. However, additional situations exist that can trigger these exact same charges. Ohio Revised Code 4511.203 clearly outlines the legal boundaries defining when you shall be charged with this offense. You can face prosecution if the alleged driver is related to you by blood or marriage, or if they live in the same household. Because Ohio treats these charges as seriously as a license suspension, having a trusted St. Clairsville criminal lawyer is vital. This first-degree offense carries the following penalties:

• Imprisonment for up to 6 months
• A maximum fine of $1000
• 30 days of vehicle immobilization for a first-time offense
• 60 days of vehicle immobilization for a second offense
• Vehicle forfeiture if the offender is convicted for a third time

Consult Our Legal Team Today

If you are caught in this type of scenario, complete legal assistance is necessary so that your St. Clairsville OVI attorney can aggressively fight for your case and ensure the best possible resolution. At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we have extensive experience managing these specific violations and securing optimal outcomes. We will listen diligently to your situation, protect your rights, and seek the justice you deserve.

Call (330) 791-8104 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation today.