OVI – Am I Eligible for a Driver’s Intervention Program?

Jail time is not something that many people look forward to. In fact, most people would go to great lengths and pay exorbitant amounts of money to avoid having to spend any length of time in jail. This can cause significant concern to people charged with operating a vehicle impaired (OVI) since even first-time OVI offenders must spend some amount of time in jail. Some Ohio counties operate a Driver’s Intervention Program (DIP) which can serve as an alternative to the mandatory jail requirements first-time OVI offenders face. If you are facing OVI charges in Ohio, contact the seasoned OVI defense attorneys at Walker Novack Group, LLC today by calling (614) 423-8276.

Eligibility Requirements for Participation in DIP

DIP is an alternative program that can replace the mandatory three-day jail sentence that a first-time OVI offender would otherwise have to serve. The DIP is an educational program designed to inform those convicted of OVI about alcohol and drug addiction and abuse. Some who participate in the DIP program may be screened and required to attend additional treatment. The Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services certifies all DIP programs in the state. The DIP program typically lasts between two and three days.

If a DIP program is offered in the county in which your OVI charge is filed, and you are eligible to participate in the DIP program, then the DIP program would take the place of the mandatory jail sentence you would otherwise have to serve. Not every county in Ohio operates a DIP program. In those counties which do offer a DIP program, the eligibility requirements generally include:

• This must be considered your first OVI offense – DIP is not available for repeat OVI offenders.
• You must schedule your DIP within the time frame allowed by the court. Failing to timely schedule and attend a DIP program can result in the court imposing the jail sentence.
• You must pay to attend the DIP unless the court finds you indigent (that is, poor and unable to afford the DIP fee).
• You must participate in the DIP program, including participating in classroom sessions, small group discussions, and screenings.
• The DIP program you attend must be one certified by the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.

What Happens After the DIP Program?

If you successfully complete the DIP program and have no other issues while on supervision or probation, then you will not have to spend any time in jail. If you fail to complete the DIP program or otherwise do not comply with any terms the court imposes, then you may be required to serve a jail sentence.

Can an OVI Defense Attorney Help Me if I am a First-Time OVI Offender?

If you are facing your first OVI charge, Walker Novack Legal Group, LLC can help you petition the court for acceptance into a DIP program (if one is offered in your area). This can assist you in keeping your job as well as your reputation at work and in the community. Call our office by dialing (614) 423-8276 and schedule a free, no-cost consultation so we can better learn about your situation and whether a DIP program may be a good choice for you.

Walker Novack Legal Group, LLC
5013 Pine Creek Drive
Westerville, Ohio 43081
P: (614) 423-8276
F: (614) 767-0695