What Are the Penalties for an Underage OVI?

Under Ohio law, an individual may be charged with drunk driving for having a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher. However, individuals under the age of 21 may be charged with operating a vehicle while impaired (OVI) if they have a BAC of only 0.02 percent or higher. Prosecutors treat OVI cases very aggressively and the penalties can be harsh. If your child has been charged with an underage OVI, you can turn to a DUI attorney in Columbus for the best possible criminal defense. The DUI lawyer can also answer any questions you may have about the potential penalties.

Upon conviction, an individual charged with an underage OVI may be ordered to serve up to 30 days behind bars at the county jail. He or she might be required to pay fines of up to $250. The defendant’s driver’s license can be suspended for at least 90 days. Additionally, individuals convicted of an underage OVI can be required to successfully complete an alcohol education program. It’s important to understand that having a criminal conviction also leads to long-term consequences, such as difficulty obtaining employment and housing. Working with a criminal defense attorney offers the best possible chance of a favorable outcome.