What is Administrative License Suspension?

Administrative License Suspension in Ohio

Often, you will hear the advice that if you are stopped for drunk driving, you can avoid the hassle of serious criminal charges by refusing to submit to a sobriety tests. DUI attorneys in Columbus Ohio know this isn’t always the best advice. Under Ohio law, you may face Administrative License Suspension.

Administrative License Suspension (ALS) means that if you are stopped for drunk driving and you refuse to take a sobriety test, or if your test results exceed the legal limit, the law enforcement officer can take
your driver’s license on the spot. Your suspension begins immediately.

Depending on previous offenses or refusals, you can have your license automatically suspended for a period of 90 days to five years. The suspension is independent of any jail term, fine or other criminal penalty imposed in court for a DUI offense. Penalties for DUI conviction in Ohio vary from fines and temporary license suspension, to vehicle forfeiture, jail time, and permanent license suspension.

If you have been charged with DUI, it is important to know what you’re up against. The Columbus DUI lawyers at Yavitch & Palmer are familiar with DUI and DWI charges, the legal and scientific testing
conducted, and the penalties for a conviction. Our knowledge and experience helps us achieve positive results for our clients in court.

By Yavitch & Palmer Co., L.P.A | Posted on February 17, 2009

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FAQs

Q: What kinds of crimes go to trial?

Answer

Any case can go to trial. Although we often see the most serious matters in trial, that is not always the case. Sometimes the more serious offenses carry the risk of greater consequences. We commonly have trials on all matters, including OVI, traffic, and complex criminal cases.

Q: How likely is it my case will go to trial?

Answer

Trials are rare, with just 2.5% of Ohio criminal cases in common pleas court going to trial in 2012. Most cases resolve by plea negotiations. However, every case is unique and you need a lawyer to help you figure out all your available options.

Q: What’s the difference between a civil law and a criminal law?

Answer

Civil law deal with disputes between individuals, organizations or both. Yavitch & Palmer deals with criminal law— crimes and legal punishments of criminal offenses, like assault, robbery, drug trafficking and much more.