It can be incredibly intimidating to see the flashing lights of a law enforcement vehicle in your rearview mirror. One moment you are driving, and the next moment you are wondering if you will face arrest or criminal charges. If you are facing allegations of drunk driving in Ohio, you know that there is a lot at stake for you. You could be facing penalties that may include time behind bars, fines and more.
It is important that you know what to expect in this situation and that you take the appropriate steps to protect your interests through a strong defense strategy. Even if it is your first offense, you will not want to underestimate the potential effect that this can have on your life. If convicted, you may find that the impacts can affect the rest of your life.
The consequences may be dire
When you think about the consequences of an OVI, you may think about the potential for jail time, or even the possibility of losing your license. You also know that you could have to pay expensive fines, and a conviction for drunk driving will leave a permanent mark on your criminal record. Other ways that an OVI can affect your life include the following:
- Because it will leave a mark on your criminal record, your OVI could be a factor every time you need a background check, whether it is for employment, housing, college admission and more.
- Your auto insurance rates may go up, or your insurance provider may drop you altogether. This can add up over time.
- Your employer may not want to retain you as an employee after an OVI conviction, especially if you work with children or your job requires you to drive.
- A criminal conviction can have an impact on your reputation, which can in turn affect your friendships, your job opportunities and other aspects of your life.
If you are facing these charges, you do not have to face them alone. You will benefit from seeking insight from a professional regarding the ways you can defend yourself and possibly avoid a conviction for drunk driving. An assessment of your individual case can help you understand the legal options available to you.