OVI & DUI Criminal Defense Attorney in Ohio
Improper Handling of a Firearm | DUI ǀ OVI in Ohio
In Ohio, you can face significant criminal penalties for operating a vehicle while under the influence and even stiffer penalties for the improper handling of a firearm. However, the penalties for OVI with the improper handling of a firearm are even more stringent. Under Ohio law, firearms, drugs or alcohol, and moving vehicles do not mix.
At The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc., our gun crime and DUI defense team has the knowledge and resources to help you through a complex and confusing legal situation. We understand how weapons charges and drunk driving charges merge to create a dynamic and complex case. Fighting these charges requires a tenacious and aggressive criminal defense lawyer.
Before you talk to law enforcement, talk to us. Contact our law firm by calling 614-444-3036. The path toward justice starts with a confidential legal consultation. No matter where you are, we have an office nearby that can help. Conveniently located in Columbus, Delaware, Mt. Gilead, New Lexington, and Cambridge, our defense team is ready to help you.
What Is Improper Handling of a Firearm in Ohio?
Ohio recognizes correct and incorrect ways to handle dangerous firearms. Ohio law stipulates that the improper handling of a firearm can mean:
- Ohio recognizes correct and incorrect ways to handle dangerous firearms. Ohio law stipulates that the improper handling of a firearm can mean:
Other situations that fall under the definition of improper handling of a firearm in Ohio include:
- Handling by a person under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or a combination of both
- The results of a chemical test indicate the individual handling the firearm is above the legal BAC for operating a vehicle.
- The individual knowingly discharges a firearm in a motor vehicle.
- A firearm is readily accessible without an individual having to leave the vehicle.
Ohio law does allow individuals who may lawfully have a firearm to carry firearms in their vehicles if they meet the following conditions:
- The firearm is unloaded
- The firearm is in a closed box, case, or package.
- The firearm is located in plain sight and secured in a rack or specialty holder made to hold guns.
- The firearm is located in a compartment or area only accessible by leaving the vehicle.
What Should I Expect After Being Charged With DUI in Ohio?
OVI, sometimes called DUI in other jurisdictions, means operating a vehicle under the influence. There are some common misconceptions about Ohio OVI cases, particularly that you can only face legal repercussions if you drink alcohol and your blood alcohol concentration is .08 percent or over the legal limits. However, individuals can face Ohio OVI charges when:
- They are under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or a combination of them.
- The individual has a BAC of .08 percent or higher.
- The individual has a specific concentration of marijuana, PCP, LSD, methamphetamine, amphetamine, cocaine, or heroin in their system.
- Drugs, alcohol, or both impair the individual to the point where it “adversely affected and appreciably impaired” the individual’s actions, reactions, or mental processes.
- I have never been in trouble before. What will happen if I plead guilty to my OVI?
- My license suspension is over. How do I get my license back?
- My case is officially over. Can I get this OVI conviction off my record?