While many people know the terms DUI and DWI, there is another acronym that represents a charge they may be less familiar with: OVI, or operating a vehicle while impaired. This charge does not require that a motor be running. Instead, operating a vehicle of any kind -- even a bicycle -- can bring with it some serious penalties. If you or someone you know has recently been charged with an OVI, it is advisable to retain the services of an OVI attorney. Take a look below to see just three of the reasons why hiring a lawyer with OVI case experience can be beneficial.
Reviewing the Prosecutor's Evidence
Whether or not an OVI charge is overturned or not depends almost entirely on the strength of the evidence that a prosecutor has collected. If the legality of the charge is left unchallenged, or if the defendant attempts to represent themselves, the chances of overturning the charge are slim to none. An experienced OVI attorney, on the other hand, can review the prosecutor's evidence and determine if there are any flaws. If there are, the attorney is more than capable of using these to the defendant's advantage when presenting the case before a judge. If you have any doubt whatsoever as to the validity of an OVI charge, speak with an attorney as soon as possible.
Backing up Your Testimony
If you believe you have been wrongfully charged with operating a vehicle while impaired, it is almost certain that your version of events differs in significant ways from the testimony of the officer who has made the arrest. Unfortunately, your testimony alone — no matter how convincing it may seem — is rarely enough to get the charge overturned. You must have your testimony corroborated by eyewitnesses, cameras, or expert testimony of some kind. One of the main responsibilities of an OVI attorney is to investigate any and all sources that may back up your claims in order to strengthen your case as much as possible.
Negotiating for Lesser Penalties
If you fail to hire an attorney, you are in no position to negotiate the penalty that comes with an OVI charge. You may face severe fines or even imprisonment, depending on whether you are a repeat offender. In many cases, an attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor to lower your fine, shorten your sentence, or reduce other obligations such as community service hours.
Share21 October 2021
Too many single people assume they don't need to plan their estate. My brother fell into this category, and his unexpected passing left our entire family struggling to deal with his home, belongings, and financial accounts. It took nearly three years for the courts to set up a deal because he left no paperwork detailing how he wanted his estate divided. The situation immediately convinced me to work on my own estate, even though I'm still in my early 30's and don't have children or a spouse to worry about. Since it's a little harder to pick beneficiaries and estate managers when you're single, I collected the resources I used for making my own decisions and decided to publish them here on my blog. Use these resources before talking to an estate planning attorney so you're prepared for making hard decisions.