OVI Chemical Test Refusal
ORC 4511(B)
Do I Have a Right to Refuse a Chemical Test?
You have a right to refuse a breathalyzer, urine, and/or blood test. However, once you are arrested, a refusal may result in an administrative license suspension if the charges are warranted, subject to the court granting driving privileges. It is important to note that sometimes the charges are invalid because the officer did not follow proper procedure. At Funkhouser Law, we will fight the charges against you and determine if they were unwarranted or invalid. The length of the suspension depends on how many times a person previously refused a chemical test as outlined in the chart below.
What is the Penalty for Refusing a Breathalyzer Test?
What Should I Do if I’m Pulled Over?
Most people are aware of the fact that they do have a right to refuse a breathalyzer test. However, not very many people are aware that they can also, and should until an attorney advises otherwise, refuse to take the field sobriety tests (Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus [pen test], Walk and Turn, and One Leg Stand). At Funkhouser Law, we recommend contacting our office to discuss this choice or, if that is not possible due to the circumstances, refusing the chemical or breathalyzer test and the field sobriety tests until you have the opportunity to speak with legal counsel.
Real Experiences from Our Clients
Dedicated to Your Defense
-
“Douglas Funkhouser came highly recommended from 2 of his previous clients whom I had a business relationship, so I set high expectations for him. Mr. Funkhouser met and exceeded those expectations.”- R.J.
-
“Doug met us at the courthouse and my anxiety went down another notch and it continued to go down and then was gone, knowing Doug was representing my son.”- E.F.
-
“I hope to never need his services again, but if I do I will definitely hire him again!”- K.B.
-
“His character, experience, and work ethic make him an ideal Lawyer.”- Dan R.
-
“I sincerely felt like he had my best interests in mind and worked to get a fair and favorable outcome for me.”- C.M.
-
“For my family, we can count on him whether it is personal or corporate because he is no longer an attorney to our family business but a friend to our family.”- Luke S.
-
“- John F.
J and I again want to thank you very much for the outstanding professional help that you provided on J’s behalf.
” -
“Doug Funkhouser is one of the most intelligent and personable criminal defense attorneys in Ohio.”- B.G.
-
“He really helped me out. I know anyone that needs help with legal problems needs to contact Doug, he’s a life saver.”- W.M.