Ohio OVI Defense
First OVI Offense in Ohio — What You're Facing and How to Fight It
A first OVI offense in Ohio carries real consequences — up to 6 months in jail, a $1,075 fine, and a 1–3 year license suspension. But a first offense is also the most defensible. With the right attorney, many first OVI charges are reduced or dismissed entirely.
3 days – 6 months
Jail Time
Up to $1,075
Fine
1–3 years
License Suspension
1st Degree Misdemeanor
Class
Time is critical. Ohio's Administrative License Suspension (ALS) challenge window is only 30 days from your arrest date. Contact Rutan Law immediately to protect your driving privileges.
How Rutan Law Defends Your Case
Every OVI case is different. We identify the strongest defenses available and pursue them aggressively from day one.
Challenge the Traffic Stop
If the officer lacked reasonable suspicion to pull you over, all evidence gathered afterward may be suppressed — including breathalyzer results.
Attack the Breathalyzer
Ohio breathalyzers must be calibrated and maintained per strict protocols. A single deviation can render the result inadmissible.
Question Field Sobriety Tests
FSTs are subjective and affected by medical conditions, footwear, road surface, and lighting. We challenge the officer's administration and scoring.
Negotiate a Reduction
In many cases we negotiate a first OVI down to a reckless operation charge, which carries no mandatory license suspension and no OVI record.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most often about this charge.
Ready to Fight Your Charge?
Charged with a first OVI? Call Rutan Law at (614) 307-4343 — available 24/7 for a free consultation.