Just because you receive a DUI doesn’t mean your life can be on pause. We understand that you may have work, school, appointments and more that you cannot miss. But under Ohio law, can you drive to work after a DUI?
Besides jail time, fines, and other penalties, getting a DUI in Ohio can mean a driver license suspension for 1 to 3 years (for a first offense). An administrative license suspension (ALS) means you cannot drive under any circumstances for at least 15 days. This hard suspension is dependent on whether you took a test or refused. If you refuse the suspension would be 30 days before you can receive driving privileges. Further, getting back on the road also depends if you have prior OVIs. If you have a prior OVI, the hard suspension will be longer. However, once this period is over you can work with an attorney to gain limited driving privileges.
Depending on your case, our DUI attorneys can use different methods to reinstate your freedom to drive.
- Challenge the administrative license suspension. You have 30 days from the date of arraignment to challenge the suspension of your license. We can make a case to the judge to cancel the suspension if there were any defects with police procedures or paperwork.
- Request a stay of suspension. We can ask the court for a “stay” of the administrative license suspension, meaning you can drive while your case is pending. However, this is up to the judge’s discretion.
- File for restricted driving privileges. We can file a petition on your behalf to regain your driving privileges under specific circumstances. It is up to the judge’s discretion to grant those privileges, which often include work, school, or medical reasons.
We understand the importance of driving to your necessary daily activities, but driving with a suspended license has serious consequences. In Ohio, driving with a suspended license is typically a first-degree misdemeanor with up to 6 months of jail time and $1,000 in fines.
Instead, our experienced DUI attorneys can fight to regain your driving privileges, so you don’t need to let a DUI get in the way of your life or lose your license.
Are you or someone you know facing DUI / OVI charges?
If you are facing DUI charges, you need to speak with an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible. The Law Offices of Steven R. Adams is recognized by Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, The Best Lawyers in America, National Trial Lawyers Top 100, and is one of U.S. News' Best Law Firms. Please contact us online or call our Cincinnati office directly at 513-929-9333 to schedule your free consultation.
