Drunk Driving Charges: Helping CDL Holders Fight Back

Obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in the United States is no small feat. It involves paying fees, passing rigorous tests, and dedicating significant time and effort. For many, a CDL is not just a license; it is a livelihood. Unfortunately, being pulled over and charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) can put all that hard work at risk. A single traffic stop could potentially cost you your license and, by extension, your career.

In Ohio, the stakes are incredibly high for CDL holders. Losing your license feels catastrophic because reinstating a CDL is a complex process, and your ability to earn a living is immediately compromised. This issue affects a wide range of individuals in Mahoning County, from small business owners and entry-level employees to long-haul truckers passing through the state. If you are facing these serious accusations, the situation can feel insurmountable. This is why professional legal guidance is essential. At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, our skilled legal team is dedicated to guiding you through the trial process and securing the best possible outcome for your case.

The Basics of DUIs for CDL Holders

It doesn’t take a conviction to negatively impact a commercial driver. Simply being accused of operating a vehicle with a high Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) or being arrested for DUI can trigger immediate consequences. For instance, an arrest can lead to an automatic 90-day suspension of your commercial license. Furthermore, if a driver refuses to submit to chemical testing, they face an administrative suspension lasting one year.

These administrative penalties can be devastating because your commercial vehicle is often your only means of travel for work. If your license is suspended, your employer may be forced to let you go since you legally cannot drive the necessary vehicles. This is a critical moment where having a knowledgeable Youngstown criminal lawyer by your side becomes invaluable.

If a CDL holder is ultimately convicted of a DUI, the penalties become even more severe, including:

• One-Year Disqualification: You will be required to surrender your CDL for a full year.
• Lifetime Ban: If this is your second conviction, you will lose your CDL permanently.
• Additional Court Sanctions: You will face standard criminal penalties, such as fines and jail time.
• Serious Felony Charges: If the DUI incident resulted in an accident causing death, you could face aggravated vehicular homicide or manslaughter charges.

This is where a dedicated Youngstown DUI attorney can intervene to protect your future. Our primary goal is to safeguard your rights and construct a robust defense aimed at dismissing or reducing the charges against you. We thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your arrest, looking for every possible angle to build a solid case. We understand that the consequences of a DUI go far beyond the courtroom for commercial drivers, which is why we are committed to helping you navigate this challenging time.

Connect With a Youngstown Criminal Lawyer

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we possess a deep understanding of DUI cases specifically involving the revocation of commercial licenses. We know the laws in Mahoning County inside and out. Your lawyer will listen carefully to the details of your situation, leveraging years of experience and expertise to find the most effective solution for you.

Don’t let a mistake or a misunderstanding cost you your career. If you are a commercial driver facing these charges, time is of the essence. Reach out to a Youngstown DUI attorney at 412.387.6901 to discuss your options. For a comprehensive consultation and to start building your defense, call us today.