What Are The Penalties for a First-Time OVI in Ohio?

The penalties for a first-time OVI in Ohio depend on the type of offense you are charged with.

If your BAC is between .08 and .17, or if you refuse the breathalyzer and are charged anyway, that is considered a simple OVI.

The minimum penalties for a first-offense simple OVI are a minimum 3 days in jail (or a three day alcohol class), a 6-month license suspension, and a $375 fine.  The maximum penalties are 6 months in jail, a 3-year license suspension, a $1,075 fine, and 5 years of community control (probation).  It is rare to receive the maximum penalties for a first-time OVI, however.

If your BAC is equal to or greater than .17, that is considered a high-tier OVI, which carries additional penalties.  The minimum and maximum penalties are the same as a simple OVI, except that the high-tier offense carries a minimum jail sentence of 6 days instead of 3.  However, 3 of those days can be served in an alcohol class.  Special license plates are also required for a high-tier offense.

Contact the Brown Law Office today for a free consultation if you are charged with an OVI.