OVI Penalties

Ohio OVI Penalties: What You Need to Know in 2025

Operating a vehicle while impaired (OVI) in Ohio carries serious consequences—and with legislative changes now in effect, knowing your rights and potential penalties is more important than ever.

Recent Legal Updates: House Bill 37 (“Liv’s Law”)

House Bill 37, also known as Liv’s Law, became effective on April 9, 2025. Key changes include:

• Oral fluid testing is now permitted during OVI investigations—new tool for law enforcement
• Fines increased by $190 across all OVI offenses, with the extra amount partly funding treatment and ignition interlock programs
• Driver’s license reinstatement fees were lowered from $475 to $315

OVI Penalty Breakdown: First-Offense Highlights

Penalty Details:

Jail Time - 3–6 days mandatory; courts may allow a 72-hour Driver Intervention Program (DIP) instead

Fines - Minimum $565; maximum ~$1,075 (excluding court costs)

Administrative License Suspension (ALS) - 90 days for failed tests, 1 year for refusals

Court-Ordered Suspension - 1–3 years; credited with time served during ALS

Repeat Offenses: Escalating Consequences

Second and third-time offenses bring significantly harsher penalties:

• Second Offense: Jail up to 6 months; higher fines, longer suspensions, and ignition interlock devices often required
• Third Offense: May be treated as a felony offense—potentially years behind bars and extended license revocation
• Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs): Now mandatory for repeat offenses and certain first offenses with blood test refusals or prior physical control convictions

Why Local Expertise Matters

Criminal defense in OVI cases depends greatly on:

• Understanding Lucas County and Toledo-specific procedures
• Challenging evidence from new enforcement tools like oral fluid testing
• Mitigating administrative penalties through appeals or motions

Take Action: Get Experienced Representation

If you're facing an OVI charge:

• Act quickly—ALS deadlines and legal challenges are time-sensitive.
• A local defense attorney can help protect your rights and reduce the impact of OVI consequences.

Contact Brian C. Morrissey, Attorney at Law to discuss your case and potential defenses in Toledo or northwest Ohio:

• Call: 419-830-7441
• Visit: www.brianmorrisseylaw.com
• Email: brian@brianmorrisseylaw.com