![](/assets/pack/background/19.2307211714550.jpg)
Columbus DUI and OVI Lawyers
Driving under the influence (DUI) and operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI) are terms often used interchangeably. DUI is used casually to describe the act of driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs. OVI is the precise legal terminology used in the state of Ohio to describe these charges.
An OVI charge is when a driver operates a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or while under the influence of drugs, including prescription medications. If you are facing DUI or OVI charges, our experienced Columbus lawyers know how to go about fighting them and we will work hard to protect your rights.
Call Funkhouser Law at (614) 756-2154 or contact us online to set up a free consultation.
How to Challenge a DUI/OVI Charge
Defendants in these cases often feel like there is no hope, and they must simply accept any deal offered to them by the District Attorney’s office. The reality is quite different. There are far more ways than most people realize to mount a defense against drunk driving.
Lack of Probable Cause
Law enforcement officers are required to have a valid reason-known as probable cause-to initiate a traffic stop. This means they must observe a traffic violation or behavior that reasonably indicates the driver may be impaired, such as swerving, speeding, or running a red light. If an officer stops a vehicle without a justifiable reason, any evidence obtained during the stop, including breath, blood, or field sobriety tests, could be deemed inadmissible in court.
As part of your defense, we will scrutinize the details of the traffic stop, including the police report and any available dashcam or bodycam footage. We’ll look for inconsistencies in the officer’s account or evidence that contradicts the officer's stated reasons for the stop.
Perseverance You Can Rely On
Our founding partner, Attorney Douglas A. Funkhouser, comes from a military background, and those values drive our firm every day. We don’t shy away from tough cases, and we embrace the need for diligent, meticulous investigation. Our clients can count on us to keep persevering and digging, as we search for vital evidence that can aid your defense.
We’ve been serving the Central and Southern Ohio Region since 2000, have built an impressive record at trial, and have earned some wonderful testimonials from our clients. We hope to have the opportunity to defend you, too.
Call today at (614) 756-2154. Let our experienced Columbus DUI and OVI lawyers help you or your loved one.
![](/assets/pack/foreground/group3.2407171923550.jpg)
![](/assets/pack/background/reviews-v1-bg.2309181645550.jpg)
Real Experiences from Our Clients
Dedicated to Your Defense
-
The thing I appreciate most about Doug was his honesty. I always felt like I could trust what he told me and in fact I was smart to do so.- J.W.