Columbus and Delaware, Ohio Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with a criminal offense in Columbus or Delaware, Ohio, contact Johnson Legal, LLC and speak with an experienced Columbus and Delaware, Ohio criminal defense attorney. Attorney David Johnson of Johnson Legal, LLC will discuss your case and assist you in fighting the charges. Call (614) 987-0192 or send an email to schedule a consultation regarding your criminal offense case.

What is Reckless Operation in Ohio?

Reckless operation is often charged pursuant to ORC 4511.20. Ohio law defines reckless operation as operating a vehicle in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of others or property. Essentially, this means that you were committing some type of traffic violation which created a dangerous situation.

DUI / OVI vs. Physical Control vs. Reckless Operation

A common resolution in a DUI / OVI case is for the prosecutor, upon defense counsel discovering several weaknesses in the DUI/OVI case, to agree to reduce the DUI/OVI charge to physical control. While physical control is still an alcohol related offense, and cannot be expunged, it does not result in any points being assessed to your driver’s license. This may be an option for you to consider if you are close to the 12-point limit on your driver’s license in Ohio in a 2 year period. Moreover, a physical control conviction cannot be used to enhance a later DUI / OVI conviction.

However, challenging the DUI / OVI case directly or negotiating for a reckless operation change may be an option. Reckless operation can be charged as either a 4th degree misdemeanor or a minor misdemeanor. While points will be assessed to your license unlike a physical control offense, reckless operation is not an alcohol related offense. This is significant for a variety of reasons explained below.

Reckless Operation Penalties in Ohio

Reckless operation can be charged as either a 4th degree misdemeanor or a minor misdemeanor. In addition to points being assessed to your license, this offense can carry up to 30 days in jail and a $250 fine. However, unlike DUI/OVI or physical control, reckless operation carries no license suspension. Moreover, it does not carry the same stigma as DUI/OVI and physical control for potential employers and insurance companies.

Criminal Defense Attorney – Columbus and Delaware, Ohio

If you have been charged with reckless operation in Columbus or Delaware, Ohio, contact Johnson Legal, LLC and speak with an experienced Columbus and Delaware, Ohio criminal defense attorney. Attorney David Johnson of Johnson Legal, LLC will discuss your case and assist you in fighting the charges. Call (614) 987-0192 or send an email to schedule a consultation regarding your reckless operation case.