OVI / DUI DEFENSE · COLUMBUS, OH
Facing an OVI or DUI charge in Columbus? Attorney Michael Cox represents clients throughout the OVI process, from the initial stop and sobriety testing through motions, negotiations, and trial when necessary.
UNDERSTANDING THE CHARGE
You may hear the terms DUI, OVI, OMVI, or “drunk driving.” Ohio law uses OVI: operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
DUI means “driving under the influence”; OMVI refers to “operating a motor vehicle while under the influence.”
The word “operating” matters. Ohio defines it as causing or having caused a vehicle to move. An OVI charge may involve alleged impairment or a chemical test showing a prohibited concentration of alcohol or certain drugs.
You do not have to feel “drunk” for the legal issues to require careful review. Understanding the charge and the evidence is the first step in understanding your options.
Explore the OVI case process
Personal attention from an attorney who takes time to understand your situation.
Meet Michael CoxFROM THE STOP TO THE COURTROOM
Each stage deserves a careful look. Explore the steps and the evidence that may be involved.
How an OVI investigation may begin.
Explore this stage 02HGN, Walk-and-Turn and One-Leg Stand.
Explore this stage 03Breath, blood and urine testing.
Explore this stage 04When evidence or procedures may be challenged.
Explore this stage 05How an OVI case may ultimately be resolved.
Explore this stage01 · THE TRAFFIC STOP
An OVI investigation may begin with a traffic violation or driving that gives an officer reasonable suspicion of impairment. The legality of a stop depends on the facts available to the officer at the time.
The investigation can begin with the vehicle in motion and continue when the officer comes into contact with the driver. Speeding, a lane violation, a broken light, or a failure to signal may lead to an initial stop.
After making contact, an officer may describe signs that lead to further investigation. Michael’s review considers the basis for the stop, the expanded investigation, and the arrest separately.
02 · THE INVESTIGATION
Officers commonly use three standardized tests. Reviewing the instructions, administration, and recorded observations can help assess whether the results should be challenged.
The officer asks you to follow a moving object with your eyes while keeping your head still.
The officer checks each eye for three clues:
There are six possible clues across both eyes. A review can consider the officer’s training and how the test was administered.
You are instructed to take nine heel-to-toe steps, turn as directed, and take nine steps back.
Eight possible clues include:
Available video can help assess the instructions, performance, and recorded observations.
You are instructed to raise one foot about six inches and count aloud while the officer times the test for 30 seconds.
Four possible clues are:
The instructions and the way the test was administered are part of a careful evidence review.
Some officers use additional exercises, such as alphabet or counting tasks. A defense review considers the investigation as a whole.
LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR NEXT STEP
Speak directly with Michael Cox about what happened
and what the next steps may look like.
03 · CHEMICAL TESTING
Chemical testing may involve breath, blood, or urine to measure alcohol or identify drugs. Ohio’s prohibited concentrations vary with the substance and type of sample.
For breath alcohol, Ohio’s adult per-se threshold begins at .08 grams per 210 liters of breath. A result of .17 or higher falls within the high-test provision. Separate, lower alcohol limits apply to drivers under 21.
A test result does not end the defense review. Relevant issues may include test procedures, approved equipment, instrument checks, operator qualifications, and how a sample was collected and handled.
Michael reviews the testing evidence with the facts of your case to discuss possible challenges and the available options.
04 · EVIDENCE REVIEW
A motion to suppress asks the court to exclude evidence when a legal basis exists. An OVI motion may address the stop, the investigation, field sobriety testing, or chemical testing.
At a hearing, officers may testify under oath about what happened and how tests were performed. The defense can cross-examine witnesses and bring specific issues to the court’s attention. The judge decides whether the challenged evidence may be used.
A hearing can also give the defense a closer view of the testimony and evidence before trial.
WHY COX LAW OFFICE
The attorney you speak with is the attorney who handles your case. Michael takes time to understand the facts, discuss your goals, and help you make informed decisions.
Work directly with Michael, rather than being handed from attorney to attorney.
Legal experience serving clients in Ohio since 2006.
Experience handling criminal matters through hearings, negotiations, and trial.
Michael learns what happened, discusses your goals, and explains the process.
05 · NEGOTIATION OR TRIAL
Some OVI cases resolve through negotiations or dismissal; others proceed to trial. The appropriate course depends on the evidence and the circumstances of your case.
Michael discusses the advantages, risks, and practical considerations of trial so you can make an informed decision about your defense.
Discuss Your Case With Michael CoxCOLUMBUS, OHIO
Cox Law Office represents clients facing OVI matters in Columbus and surrounding Central Ohio communities.
Whether your case began in Columbus or a neighboring community, Michael can discuss the circumstances, explain the process, and help you understand your options.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Every case has its own facts.
A conversation can help clarify yours.
DUI is a commonly used term. Ohio’s statute uses OVI, meaning operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You may also hear the older term OMVI.
Your case moves into the court process. Depending on a chemical test or refusal, an administrative license suspension may also apply. Review your paperwork and court date promptly; Michael can explain the next steps for your circumstances.
Yes. A review may consider the officer’s instructions, how the tests were administered, and the observations recorded. Ohio law addresses whether tests substantially complied with accepted standards. Whether a challenge is appropriate depends on the facts.
Yes. The review can include test administration, the instrument’s approval and check records, and operator qualifications. A particular result or procedural concern does not guarantee that evidence will be excluded.
Some cases resolve before trial, while others require it. Michael reviews the evidence and discusses the available options, risks, and your goals before advising you about trial.
An attorney can review the evidence, explain potential consequences, identify possible challenges, and help you evaluate negotiations or trial. A case evaluation with Michael is a chance to discuss what happened and understand your options.
START WITH A CONVERSATION
Tell Michael a little about your situation and the best way to reach you. He can discuss what happened and help you understand the next steps.