Got Thompson for an OVI?

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Charged with an OVI in Circleville, Ohio? Protect Your License and Your Future.

An Operating a Vehicle Impaired (OVI) charge in Circleville or Pickaway County can have immediate and lasting consequences. A conviction may result in license suspension, significant fines, increased insurance costs, mandatory alcohol or drug education, and even jail time depending on your prior record and the circumstances of your arrest.

If you've been arrested for OVI, speaking with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible can help you understand your rights and begin building a defense.

What Is an OVI in Ohio?

Ohio uses the term Operating a Vehicle Impaired (OVI) instead of DUI or DWI. An OVI charge may be based on allegations that a driver was impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both, or that the driver exceeded Ohio's legal blood alcohol concentration limits. Ohio's OVI laws also include implied consent provisions and administrative license suspension procedures following many arrests.

OVI Cases We Handle

We represent clients facing a wide range of OVI-related charges, including:

• First-time OVI offenses

• Repeat OVI charges

• High BAC ("super OVI") allegations

• Drug-related OVI charges

• Underage OVI

• Commercial driver's license (CDL) OVI cases

• OVI involving an accident

• Refusal to submit to chemical testing

Every case is unique, and an arrest does not automatically mean a conviction.

Potential Consequences of an OVI Conviction

Depending on the facts of your case, an OVI conviction may lead to:

• Driver's license suspension

• Jail or mandatory minimum incarceration

• Fines and court costs

• Probation

• Alcohol or substance abuse treatment requirements

• Ignition interlock device requirements

• Increased auto insurance premiums

• A permanent criminal record in many cases

The penalties generally become more severe for repeat offenses or when aggravating factors are present.

How We Defend OVI Charges

An effective defense begins with a thorough review of every aspect of your arrest. We evaluate issues such as:

• Whether the traffic stop was lawful

• The officer's observations

• Field sobriety testing procedures

• Breath, blood, or urine testing

• Calibration and maintenance of testing equipment

• Body camera and dash camera footage

• Police reports and witness statements

• Constitutional issues involving the stop or arrest

When appropriate, we file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence and challenge weaknesses in the prosecution's case.

What to Do After an OVI Arrest

If you have been arrested for OVI in Chillicothe:

• Remain polite and avoid discussing your case with others.

• Preserve any paperwork you received from law enforcement.

• Write down everything you remember while it is still fresh.

• Attend all scheduled court appearances.

• Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

Early legal representation can make a significant difference in how your case proceeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I lose my driver's license immediately?

Yes. Many OVI arrests result in an Administrative License Suspension (ALS) before your criminal case is resolved. In some situations, limited driving privileges may be available depending on your circumstances and the court's order.

Can an OVI charge be reduced or dismissed?

Some cases may be resolved through negotiations, while others require trial or suppression. The available options depend on the facts, the evidence, and the applicable law.

Serving Clients Throughout Circleville and Pickaway County

We represent individuals charged with OVI in Circleville Municipal Court and other courts throughout Pickaway County. Whether you are facing a first offense or have prior OVI convictions, we are committed to protecting your rights and helping you pursue the best possible outcome.

Schedule a Confidential Consultation

If you have been arrested for OVI in Circleville, Ohio, don't wait to learn your options. Contact our office today to discuss your case with an experienced criminal defense attorney and begin developing a strategy tailored to your situation.