If you’re charged with an OVI or another crime in Delaware County, Ohio, now is the time to hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer from Luftman, Heck & Associates.
Just north of Columbus, Delaware sits at the intersection of three major highways: U.S. 42, U.S. 36, and U.S. 23. This prime location sees high traffic volume and, subsequently, increased police activity.
As Delaware County grows, so do efforts to monitor impaired driving and other criminal activity. In fact, the Ohio State Highway Patrol made over 2,200 traffic stops in Delaware County in 2021 alone..
Call LHA at (614) 500-3836, or reach out online for a free, initial consultation.
What is a DUI/OVI in Delaware, Ohio?
In Ohio, a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) is legally known as an OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired). This offense involves driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher for adults, 0.04% or higher for commercial drivers, or 0.02% or higher for drivers under 21. Ohio law also considers impairment due to drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, as grounds for an OVI.
Common factors that may lead to an OVI charge include:
- Erratic Driving Behavior – Swerving, speeding, or driving too slowly.
- Failed Field Sobriety Tests – Tests administered by police to assess impairment.
- Blood, Breath, or Urine Tests – Used to measure BAC or drug levels in the body.
An OVI charge can carry severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and potential jail time. However, the specific consequences often depend on factors such as prior offenses, BAC level, and whether any accidents occurred.
Criminal Charges We Handle in Delaware County, OH
With years of experience serving Delaware County, our criminal defense team is well-prepared to defend against a range of charges. From the start, we offer a free, confidential initial consultation, and our success has led to charge reductions or dismissals for hundreds of clients in the Columbus area.
Delaware County DUI/OVI Defense
If you’re facing DUI (OVI) charges in Ohio, the consequences can be severe. Penalties for an OVI include potential jail time, heavy fines, license suspension, and permanent criminal records. Additional penalties apply if it’s a repeat offense. According to Chapter 4511.19 of the Ohio Revised Code, even a first OVI offense could mean:
- Jail time
- Fines up to $1,000
- License suspension
- Community service
- Increased insurance rates
- Potential custody impacts if a child was present
Why Hiring a Delaware OVI Lawyer Matters
OVI charges are common but not simple cases. By working with an experienced attorney, you may be able to reduce the impact on your life, potentially secure a reduction, or even have your charges dismissed.
Additional Criminal Charges in Delaware County
Delaware County sees a variety of criminal charges. If you’re facing charges for any of the following, our team is ready to help:
- Assault
- Property Damage
- Theft & Fraud
- Domestic Violence
- Sex Crimes
- Drug Crimes
- Weapons Violations
- Driving Under Suspension
Understanding the Delaware Court System
Delaware is the county seat, meaning most criminal cases in the area are handled by the Delaware Municipal Court. With over ten years of experience working in this court, we understand its judges, prosecution, and local processes.
In Delaware Municipal Court, most cases begin with an arraignment, where you can enter one of these pleas:
- Not Guilty – Contest the alleged facts.
- Guilty – Accept guilt, and proceed to sentencing.
- No Contest – You do not admit guilt but acknowledge the facts presented.
Felony Charges in Delaware, Ohio
Certain crimes, such as OVI, drug offenses, or weapons charges, may be prosecuted as felonies in the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas. In these cases, our lawyers can negotiate for a reduction or dismissal or represent you at trial if necessary.
How a Delaware Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help
If you or a loved one has been arrested in Delaware County, finding a trusted defense lawyer should be your first step. Luftman, Heck & Associates is here to provide you with strong, aggressive defense for any OVI or criminal charge you may face. Our knowledge of Delaware County resources, such as treatment programs, means we can also connect you with valuable support.
Call One of Our Experienced Delaware Criminal Defense Lawyer
Facing an OVI or criminal charge alone can be overwhelming. With the help of an experienced Delaware defense attorney, you can understand your rights and your options, knowing your future is protected.
Delaware Court System
Since Delaware is the county seat, your criminal case will likely be handled by the Delaware Municipal Court. At LHA, we’ve been working with the Delaware Municipal Court for over ten years and have a keen understanding of the judges and prosecution.
The Municipal Court hears misdemeanor criminal and traffic matters. In most scenarios, your case will begin with an arraignment in which you can enter a plea. Your plea options are:
- Not Guilty – You contest the facts alleged
- Guilty – You admit guilt, and your case moves to sentencing
- No Contest – You don’t admit guilt, but you acknowledge that the facts alleged are true
Felony Charges in Delaware, Ohio
Some crimes, such as OVI, drug crimes, weapons crimes, can be charged as felonies. If you are accused of a felony, your case will be heard in the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas.
Here, your lawyer can negotiate to have your charges reduced or dismissed, or it can proceed to trial.
A Delaware Criminal Defense & OVI Lawyer Can Help
If you or a loved one are arrested in Delaware County, your first thought should be, “Where can I find a defense lawyer near me?” At LHA, we provide people throughout central Ohio with high-quality, aggressive representation when they need it most.
Our team takes your rights seriously and knows the right arguments and negotiation tactics that could get your charges reduced or even dismissed. We also have knowledge of great Delaware County treatment programs and resources to help you get any help you might need.
Need a Delaware, OH Defense Lawyer? Call LHA
Don’t face an OVI or other criminal charge alone. With the help of an experienced, competent Delaware attorney, you can understand your rights and options so you know that your future is protected.
The criminal defense team at protects the rights of people facing all kinds of OVI or criminal charges and would be honored to do so for you.
To contact the criminal defense team at Luftman, Heck & Associates, call (614) 500-3836 or email advice@columbuscriminalattorney.com for a free consult. 24/7.
