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Multiple DUI/OVI

2nd, 3rd & 4th DUI Charges in Ohio

Get The defense You deserve for a multiple duis in columbus

A first drunk driving conviction is a misdemeanor criminal offense with accompanying penalties. The justice system is not sympathetic to those who drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol and will send a message to the offender at the time of sentencing. If the driver did not get the message and ends up arrested again for a DUI/OVI, the punishments become more significant with each occurrence.

Keep in mind that repeat offenders can face up to 5 years of mandatory imprisonment. If their repeat offense is also categorized as a felony DUI, then he or she could face an additional, non-mandatory sentence of 9-36 consecutive months upon discretion.

Aside from the harsh sentencing handed down by a judge, a DUI can affect other aspects of life like loss of employment, reputation, loss of child custody rights, increased insurance premiums, and more. 

To speak with our experienced Columbus multiple DUI lawyers, give us a call at (614) 707-4239 or contact us online today. 

What if You're Arrested for More than One DUI?

In addition to points on a driver's license and payment of license reinstatement fees, the following penalties are for two or more convictions:

  • Second offense – 10 days to 6 months in jail, $525-$1,625 fines, 1-5 years driver's license suspension, mandatory yellow DUI plates and ignition interlock device, 90 day forfeiture of vehicle
  • Third offense – 30 day to 1 year in jail, $850-$2,750 fines, 2-10 years driver's license suspension, mandatory yellow DUI plates and ignition interlock device, mandatory forfeiture of vehicle
  • Fourth offense – within 6 years, 4th degree felony with up to 36 months in jail, fines $1,350-$10,500, license suspension for 3 years to life, mandatory yellow DUI plates, ignition interlock device and vehicle forfeiture, alcohol treatment programs.

Subsequent fifth offense within 20 years can mean up to 5 years in jail and permanent loss of driving privileges, and mandatory participation in alcohol treatment programs. Penalties can increase if the driver's alcohol level (BAC) was excessively high or the driver refused to submit to testing conducted by the arresting officer. Leaving the scene of a DUI caused accident is an additional crime.

If charged with both a repeat offense and a felony DUI, you could face sentencing as a repeat offender (up to 5 years of incarceration) as well as sentencing for your felony DUI (9 – 36 months of incarceration).

Fighting OVI Evidence in Ohio

The tests performed to detect the amount of alcohol or drugs present in the driver are often inaccurate or misleading. The suspected impaired driver usually submits to these tests on the side of the road, often in the dark, and in an uncontrolled environment. It is easy to err when dealing with blood or urine tests if the tester does not follow the specific protocol and exact procedures. Mistakes can happen that affect the validity of evidence. OVI/DUI offenses are serious and a conviction can stay on your record for a long time.

How an Experienced Columbus Multiple DUI Attorney Can Help

When facing multiple DUI charges, you need more than just basic legal advice—you need a lawyer who knows how to unravel the specifics of your case and uncover potential defenses. Our firm has a proven track record helping clients with multiple DUI offenses in Columbus. 

We use tailored strategies to fight for the best possible outcome by:

  • Analyzing the arrest circumstances – Was the traffic stop legal? Were field sobriety tests administered correctly?
  • Challenging the evidence – Questioning the accuracy of BAC results or evidence-handling procedures
  • Exploring alternative sentencing options – Advocating for rehabilitative programs or reduced charges to minimize penalties
  • Providing aggressive courtroom representation – Fighting tirelessly to protect your rights and your future

Every case is unique, and our team is committed to building a defense strategy specific to your situation. We also understand the human side of these cases and work to support our clients beyond just the legal process.

Protect Your Rights with Experienced Columbus Multiple DUI Attorneys

Being charged with a DUI can have serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. It's important to have a skilled Columbus DUI lawyer on your side to protect your rights and provide a strong defense against these charges. The Meranda Law Firm LTD has a team of experienced attorneys who specialize in DUI defense and have a proven track record of success in Ohio courts.

When you choose us to represent you, you can expect:

  • Personalized attention and dedicated advocacy
  • Thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding your arrest
  • Strategic defense strategies tailored to your unique case
  • Aggressive representation in negotiations and court proceedings
  • Guidance and support throughout the legal process

Don't face DUI charges alone. Contact The Meranda Law Firm LTD today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help protect your future.

When you find yourself facing multiple DUI/OVI charges in Columbus, OH and the prospect of losing driving privileges, you have a serious legal problem. Call The Meranda Law Firm LTD for the help you need from our Columbus multiple DUI attorneys. Contact us to schedule a free, initial consultation!

Hear From Our Happy Clients

Reviews & Testimonials

At The Meranda Law Firm LTD, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    “I Was So Impressed and Would, If Needed, Use His Services Again”
    Professional, upfront, attentive, most of all comforting in the fact that the communication was clear. Never a doubt by always respectful. Admired the standard in which the company, more so Zach, displayed. I was so impressed and would if needed use his services again.
    - Anonymous
    “Excellent job!”
    We are very appreciative of the efforts put forth by Zach Meranda. The outcome was positive and he made us feel secure in an out of control situation. Felt glad to have him defending us and having his common sense approach to our case. We would recommend his services to anyone in need.
    - Anonymous
    “Great Attorney”
    Zach is a great attorney. He has represented me twice and both times I got positive results. If you need an attorney call The Meranda Law Firm, he's the best.
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    “As stress free as it can be”
    A criminal case can be very stressful. The Meranda Law Firm can help you with this process. Zack is there to make sure that you get the best personal one on one help you can get. So you don't get pushed around in the system. Takes all the worry out of your case. Very down to earth guy. Easy to talk too. Without Zack I don't know where I would be right now. Thanks Zack; can't tell you how much I appreciate the help you gave me. If you are looking for a lawyer that can take the stress out of your case Zack is your guy
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    “I Highly Recommend The Meranda Law Firm”
    I couldn't have asked for a better attorney. I've had other attorneys and Zach is the only one that actually knew my case and put a lot of time and effort into making sure the outcome was good, which it definitely was. I really think he is one of the best attorneys & I highly recommend him to anyone that needs legal help.
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    “I Could Not Have Asked for a Better Attorney Than Mr. Meranda”
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    “He Is a Very Good Lawyer”
    He is a very good lawyer and always knows what he is talking about. He knows his stuff and no matter how bad the crime is he will get you out of it and he will always give you his all.
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Have Questions?

We Have Answers!
  • Should I be worried if I am innocent?
    The short answer to this question is yes. Our legal system, though endowed with powerful rights and time-tested procedures, is far from perfect. Proclaiming yourself innocent is far from a legal defense, and you will need the assistance of an experienced attorney to gather information and refute evidence. It is a sad fact that innocent people are sometimes convicted of crimes they did not commit. If you have been arrested, a team member from The Meranda Law Firm LTD, serving both Columbus and Newark, can go to immediate work on constructing a strong defense and on seeking to have unfounded charges dropped.
  • What important legal rights am I entitled to?
    If you find yourself crossways with the law, you have important rights that must be protected. First, you have the right to be informed of your rights by police should you be arrested. You have the right to remain silent, which can help you avoid self-incrimination. You also have the right to avoid subjection to an unreasonable search and seizure. Perhaps most importantly is your right to an attorney, and should you face criminal investigation or arrest, you should be in immediate contact with a Columbus criminal defense attorney for knowledgeable and skilled legal counsel.
  • Why should I hire a criminal defense attorney?
    When you are facing a criminal charge, whether a misdemeanor or a felony, your future stands at serious risk. Not only do you face the prospect of jail time, fines, and probation, but if you are convicted you will also carry with you a permanent criminal record that can make such things as obtaining employment, educational opportunities and housing problematic. A lawyer can make sure that your legal rights are well-protected and that a strong defense is mounted on your behalf. Going it alone in the criminal justice system can put you in peril of many unwanted consequences.