Being arrested for a DUI is stressful and leaves many unsure of their future. If you’re facing DUI charges in Hilliard, Ohio, the experienced DUI attorneys at Luftman, Heck & Associates are here to help. With over a decade of experience and a proven track record, we’ve helped countless clients achieve positive outcomes.
Let us ease your stress and work toward the best possible resolution for your case. Call us today at (614) 500-3836, or contact us online to get the help you need.
Understanding DUI Charges in Ohio: What You Need to Know
In Ohio, DUI charges are referred to as OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired). These charges apply when someone operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both, with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
Why You Need a Hilliard DUI Lawyer
Pleading guilty may seem like the fastest solution, but it’s not always the best option. An experienced DUI lawyer can challenge the charges against you, often reducing penalties or getting cases dismissed entirely. At Luftman, Heck & Associates, we have the resources and legal strategies to fight for the best possible outcome.
Common Questions About Hilliard DUI Cases
You may have plenty of questions when it comes to a DUI case. Here are some of the most asked questions that Hilliard DUI lawyers hear:
Do I Have to Appear at My Arraignment?
Hilliard DUI cases are filed and scheduled for arraignment within five business days from the date of your arrest in order to allow you to appeal the administrative license suspension.
If you hire one of our dedicated OVI attorneys, we may be able to appear on your behalf so that you do not have to attend your initial court date. We may also be able to enter a not-guilty plea and address your license suspension. This saves you from attending the initial court date and allows us to start building your defense immediately.
Can I Get My License or Driving Privileges Back?
We’ll examine your case to identify options for restoring your driving privileges. This could include challenging errors on your license suspension forms, requesting a stay of the suspension, or negotiating limited driving privileges for work, school, or medical reasons.
Be sure to share all your driving needs with us upfront, including childcare transportation, so we can tailor our strategy to your situation.
Who Is The Prosecutor?
Gregory Peterson is the prosecuting attorney for Hilliard Mayor’s Court OVI cases. He has been a Franklin County prosecutor and a Franklin County Common Pleas Court judge.
Currently he is in private practice and prosecutes DUI, criminal, and traffic cases at Hilliard Mayor’s Court. He will be prosecuting your case from its initiation in arraignment court and usually will prosecute the case only if it stays in Hilliard Mayor’s Court.
Will I See the Police Reports and Traffic Stop Video?
Yes, you’ll receive copies of police reports and traffic stop footage. Our team reviews this evidence thoroughly to identify inconsistencies or procedural errors that could strengthen your defense.
What to Expect in Hilliard Mayor’s Court
Hilliard DUI cases begin with an arraignment, typically scheduled within five days of your arrest. Gregory Peterson, the prosecuting attorney, handles most DUI cases at Hilliard Mayor’s Court.
If the case involves complex evidence or negotiation challenges, we may transfer it to Franklin County Municipal Court, where additional options like suppression hearings or jury trials are available.
Consequences of a First-Time Hilliard OVI Conviction
Even a first-time OVI offense in Ohio carries serious consequences, such as:
- Jail time
- Fines up to $1,000
- License suspension
- Long-term impacts on employment, housing, professional licenses, and insurance rates
Don’t let a single mistake define your future. Our attorneys are skilled in identifying errors in the arrest process and building a strong defense to minimize or avoid penalties.
How a Hilliard DUI Lawyer Can Help
The main goal of a Hilliard DUI lawyer is to use effective defense strategies that will successfully fight the charges against you. Since it’s not uncommon for law enforcement officials to make mistakes during DUI investigations, pointing out their errors can make it possible for you to avoid serious penalties.
Challenging the Legality of the DUI Stop
It’s important to understand that a police officer must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over. If you were stopped for an invalid reason, your charges may be dismissed in court.
Examining Field Sobriety Tests
There are a number of factors that may hurt the accuracy of DUI tests. Medical conditions, physical ailments, poor coordination, and other factors can make these tests unreliable.
Questioning BAC Results
BAC readings may also be inaccurate because of improper maintenance, a flaw in the equipment, or user error. When a BAC reading does not reflect the actual amount of alcohol that was consumed, your case may be dismissed.
Don’t face DUI charges alone. Call us at (614) 500-3836 or contact us online to get started on your defense today.
Take Control of Your Future: Call an LHA DUI Attorney Today
A DUI conviction can have life-changing consequences, but with the right legal representation, you can fight back. The attorneys at Luftman, Heck & Associates will evaluate your case, identify the best strategies, and work tirelessly to protect your future.
Schedule your free consultation now by calling (614) 500-3836 or filling out our online form. The sooner you act, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
