DUI/OVI

Underage OVI Lawyer in Cleveland, OH

Experienced attorneys dedicated to protecting your rights in assault and battery cases.

Experienced Legal Help for Drivers Under 21 Facing OVI Charges

Ohio has a strict “zero tolerance” law for drivers under the age of 21. An underage OVI charge in Cleveland can have lifelong consequences, including license suspension, fines, higher insurance rates, and a record that may not be sealable, depending on the charge and age. Even a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of just 0.02 is enough to trigger an OVUAC offense, which is far below the legal limit for adult drivers. At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., we know how damaging an underage OVI conviction can be for students, young workers, and families. Attorney Pat Farrell has more than 30 years of courtroom experience and has successfully defended underage clients in Cleveland Municipal Court, the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas, and courts throughout Cuyahoga County. His familiarity with local prosecutors and judges gives our clients an important advantage when building a strong defense. 

If the driver is under 18, the case is typically handled in the Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court, where procedures and dispositions differ from adult court (e.g., no adult jail, but potential detention, probation, treatment, and license consequences).

Underage OVI Laws in Ohio

Under Ohio Revised Code § 4511.19(B), drivers under 21 face an OVUAC (underage OVI) charge if their BAC is at least 0.02 percent. This standard is far stricter than the 0.08 limit for drivers 21 and older. Drivers under 21 can also be charged with standard OVI at 0.08% or higher (or for impairment), in addition to OVUAC.

An underage OVI can involve:

  • A BAC of 0.02 or higher while operating a vehicle under 21
  • Refusal to submit to a chemical test, which triggers an administrative license suspension and can enhance penalties (especially with certain priors)
  • Repeat alcohol or drug-related driving offenses before turning 21

Penalties for underage OVI can include:

  • Fines and court costs
  • Mandatory license suspension for at least 90 days
  • Probation, community service, or alcohol education programs
  • A record that may not be sealable, depending on the charge and age, that may affect college admissions, scholarships, and employment

Get Your Free Consultation Today

Facing legal challenges? Our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way.

How Underage OVI Cases Are Prosecuted in Cleveland

Prosecutors in Cleveland often rely on:

  • Breath, blood, or urine test results
  • Field sobriety testing and officer testimony supported by dashcam or body-worn camera video
  • Witness statements and 911 recordings
  • Certified records of prior OVI or juvenile alcohol-related offenses

Because underage OVI cases involve a much lower BAC threshold, prosecutors often pursue them aggressively. Without experienced representation, young drivers face penalties that can impact their education, employment, and ability to maintain a driver’s license.

How We Defend Against an Underage OVI Charge

Our Cleveland OVI defense attorneys tailor each defense strategy to the facts of the case and the age of the client. Possible defense approaches include:

  • Challenging the stop or arrest when probable cause was lacking
  • Attacking the accuracy of chemical tests due to instrument calibration, chain of custody, or procedural errors
  • Questioning field sobriety testing when conditions or medical issues may have affected performance
  • Negotiating outcomes that focus on treatment, education, or reduced penalties rather than harsh long-term consequences

How We Defend Against

Don’t leave your future to chance. The sooner you reach out to us, the sooner we can begin crafting a robust defense strategy. We are here to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and provide the legal expertise you need to fight back against the charges.

When facing criminal charges, having a dedicated and experienced defense team by your side is crucial. At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., we understand the stakes involved and are committed to building the strongest defense possible for you. Our team will work tirelessly to analyze every detail of your case and ensure your rights are protected.

We recognize that each case is unique, and we tailor our strategies to fit your specific situation. Our attorneys are skilled in navigating the complexities of criminal law, and we will guide you through every step of the legal process. With our support, you can feel confident in your defense and the choices you make.

Your freedom and reputation are on the line, and we take that responsibility seriously. Our commitment to you goes beyond just legal representation; we aim to be your trusted ally during this challenging time. Together, we will work towards the best possible outcome.

Take action now and let us help you reclaim control of your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start building your strongest defense.

Penalties for Underage OVI in Ohio

Penalties depend on the BAC level, prior record, and whether aggravating circumstances are present:

First Underage OVI

A first OVUAC is typically a fourth-degree misdemeanor, with penalties that can include:

  • Up to $250 in fines
  • Up to 30 days in jail
  • Driver’s license suspension for 90 days to 2 years
  • Court-ordered treatment or alcohol education program

Repeat Underage OVI

  • Harsher fines and longer jail sentences
  • Extended license suspension or revocation
  • Possible elevation to the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas if felony-level conduct is alleged

Collateral consequences may include college disciplinary actions, scholarship loss, CDL disqualification for those planning careers in commercial driving, and long-term increases in insurance premiums.

Why Choose Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A.?

At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., we prioritize your rights and freedom. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with personalized defense strategies that yield results.

Your Defense Starts Here

Don’t leave your future to chance. The sooner you reach out to us, the sooner we can begin crafting a robust defense strategy. We are here to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and provide the legal expertise you need to fight back against the charges.

When facing criminal charges, having a dedicated and experienced defense team by your side is crucial. At Patrick M. Farrell Co. L.P.A., we understand the stakes involved and are committed to building the strongest defense possible for you. Our team will work tirelessly to analyze every detail of your case and ensure your rights are protected.

We recognize that each case is unique, and we tailor our strategies to fit your specific situation. Our attorneys are skilled in navigating the complexities of criminal law, and we will guide you through every step of the legal process. With our support, you can feel confident in your defense and the choices you make.

Your freedom and reputation are on the line, and we take that responsibility seriously. Our commitment to you goes beyond just legal representation; we aim to be your trusted ally during this challenging time. Together, we will work towards the best possible outcome.

Take action now and let us help you reclaim control of your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start building your strongest defense.

Get Your Free Consultation Today

Facing legal challenges? Our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way.