Drunk Driving (DUI And OVI) Defense

In Ohio, the penalties for operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI) and driving under the influence (DUI) are serious. A first offense can result in days or months in jail, fines of up to $1,000 and license suspension from six months to three years. The penalties increase significantly with additional offenses.

When charged with OVI or DUI, many people assume that the evidence against them is too strong and that they have to plead guilty. If you are in such a situation, please don’t make a decision until you’ve discussed your case with an experienced OVI lawyer.

I’m attorney George E. Pattison, and I have more than 40 years of experience in southwestern Ohio’s legal system. Through my work as a prosecutor, a judge and a criminal defense attorney, I have handled countless OVI cases. This knowledge allows me to better serve my clients by understanding how prosecutors and judges think.

Defending Against Drunk Driving Charges

The evidence in OVI cases often seems strong, especially with the use of breathalyzer devices and field sobriety tests. But some OVI and DUI cases do have weaknesses. Over the years, I have researched and written opinions on common defense strategies, including:

• Assertions that the officer did not have reasonable suspicion to initiate the traffic stop or probable cause to make the arrest
• Evidence that a police officer lost their notes from the encounter
• Assertions that the officer made one or more mistakes in administering field sobriety tests
• Assertions that the officer deviated from protocol in some other way
• Witnesses failing to show up

Of course, these defenses do not apply in all situations. Each case must be judged on its own merits. The point is that you should speak with a criminal defense attorney before deciding that you have no legal options.

Helping You Through This Difficult Time

There are times when fighting drunk driving charges may not be your goal or may not be in your best interests. In some cases, mitigation is a better strategy. No matter which approach we choose, however, you can be sure of two things. First, I will not pursue any strategy without your approval. Second, you will get through this difficult time, and I’m here to help.

Discuss Your Case With Me Today

I’ve been serving Clermont County for more than 40 years. To discuss your case with an experienced and dedicated attorney, call my Batavia office, George E. Pattison Attorney at Law, at 513-286-3392 or fill out this online contact form.