Like many Ohio drivers, you may be generally aware of the legal penalties stemming from a drunk driving or OVI arrest.
A judge can impose steep fines, probation or even jail time, but there are farther-reaching consequences that can make severe impressions on your life.
Impact on educational opportunities
Partying is a social rite of passage for many young college students. However, drinking and driving is not only against the law, but it also violates the code of conduct for most educational institutions. Therefore, an OVI conviction can derail your current and future goals, resulting in:
- Suspension or expulsion from your college or university
- Revocation of some types of financial aid
- Eviction from student housing
- Rejection from undergraduate, graduate or internship programs
Loss of professional license
Doctors, nurses, lawyers and engineers are just a few of the many professionals who must have a valid Ohio state license to practice in their fields. If you hold a professional license, depending on the rules set forth by your governing board, you may have to report your OVI conviction and face suspension.
Damage to personal relationships
Criminal convictions can have significant effects on how the people in your life choose to deal with you going forward. You may rely on your support network for help if you lose your driver’s license or if you need financial assistance while handling your court case. If you are not respectful of their sacrifice, your family members may start to resent you for how your choices impact their lives.
You can overcome the legal challenges of an OVI, but if you are not careful, the collateral consequences can make it difficult to move on with your life.
