Out-of-State DUI

When you’re charged with driving under the influence (DUI), every state in the U.S. and the Federal government takes the matter very seriously. The strict approach to prosecution is understandable, as a significant number of vehicle-related deaths are the result of accidents involving intoxicated drivers.

If you happen to be arrested for a DUI in Ohio but live in another state, it’s vital to understand Ohio’s specific DUI laws. Your case will be handled within the Ohio court system because that’s where the arrest occurred. Much like any other criminal charge, a DUI conviction in Ohio can result in the suspension of your driver’s license, no matter which state issued it. In Ohio, the legal definition of drunk driving is operating a vehicle with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of .08 percent or higher for individuals over 21. For drivers under the legal drinking age, any amount of alcohol in their system is considered a DUI. A Steubenville DUI attorney can help you navigate this complex situation.

Out-of-State DUI Process

It’s important to recognize that Ohio’s DUI laws include license suspension as a standard penalty. Here’s a look at the potential consequences you could face for a DUI offense in Ohio:

• Installation of an ignition interlock device
• A jail sentence ranging from five days to two years
• A 12-month driver’s license suspension
• Fines between $300 and $5,000

For those with no prior DUI offenses, the penalties are typically less severe. However, they can increase significantly if the incident involved an accident or if your BAC was over .10 percent. A skilled Steubenville criminal lawyer can explain how these factors may impact your case.

The Impact on You in Ohio from an Out-of-State DUI

While Ohio law doesn’t permit the direct suspension of an out-of-state license, it does have the authority to suspend your driving privileges within its borders. If you are convicted of a DUI in Ohio as a non-resident, you will lose the right to drive in the state. This means you will need someone else to drive you to court hearings to defend yourself against the charges. At Logue Law Group, our experienced Steubenville DUI attorney team is ready to defend your case, no matter where you live. If you are convicted, Ohio will report the conviction to your home state, which could then suspend your license.

Driver’s License Compact

The Driver’s License Compact is an agreement among most states, including Ohio, to share information about traffic violations like Driving While Intoxicated. Because of this compact, if you are convicted of a DUI in Ohio, your home state will be notified. For example, if you live in Tennessee, Wisconsin, Massachusetts, or Michigan, Ohio’s disclosure of your conviction will likely lead to penalties and restrictions imposed by your home state’s DMV. Engaging a Steubenville criminal lawyer is essential to mitigate these cross-state consequences.

I was Arrested for DUI in Ohio. What should I do?

If you are arrested for a DUI in Ohio, taking immediate action is critical. The first step is to hire a qualified and experienced lawyer who specializes in DUI defense. A knowledgeable Steubenville DUI attorney will have a deep understanding of current Ohio laws and the most effective strategies to protect your rights and achieve a positive outcome. A DUI conviction can have a profound and lasting impact on your life. Even though you reside out of state, you are still subject to Ohio’s penalties if convicted, which often include jail time, suspension of driving privileges, and hefty fines. The penalties become even more stringent if the offense involves a drunk driving accident or a high BAC.

You will need to provide your Steubenville criminal lawyer with all the relevant details of your case. Being open and honest with your attorney allows them to build the strongest possible defense for you. They will explain the charges you’re facing, discuss your available options, and guide you through the complexities of the criminal justice system. For anyone facing Driving Under the Influence charges in or near Steubenville, retaining an experienced defense attorney is non-negotiable. The Logue Criminal Defense team serves Steubenville and surrounding areas, including West Virginia. To schedule a free initial consultation with a skilled lawyer from Logue Law Group, contact us today at 844.PITT.DUI or reach out to us online. Don’t wait—the sooner you get legal representation, the better your chances are for a favorable result.