Ohio OVI: Why file a motion to suppress?

A motion to suppress is one of the most important tools in a DUI attorney’s arsenal.  It’s purpose is to render “the state’s proof … so weak in its entirety that any reasonable possibility of effective prosecution has been destroyed.” State v. Davidson, 17 Ohio St.3d 132, 135, 477 N.E.2d 1141 (1985).  If successful, a motion to suppress will likely end the case in favor of the defendant.

The motion is the defendant’s challenge to crucial aspects of the State’s case, which may include challenges to:

• the reason for the initial police contact;
• the reason for asking the defendant to exit the car;
• the reason for administering the standardized field sobriety tests;
• the administration of the field sobriety tests;
• the 20 minute observation period before the chemical test;
• the administration and time frame of the chemical test; and
• the results of the chemical test.

Ancillary benefits of a motion to suppress include the ability to see and hear the officer testify about the arrest.  The officer may be an exceptionally good or bad witness.  The state may or may not choose to pursue certain aspects of the case based on the testimony.  Further, the motion hearing may prove to be a valuable discovery tool.  From a purely strategic standpoint, a motion to suppress demonstrates to the State that you are committed to your client’s position and will do whatever it takes to prevent a DUI conviction.

Speak to your Ohio OVI attorney about filing a motion to suppress.  Contact Charles Rowland by phone at 937-318-1DUI (937-318-1384), 937-879-9542, or toll-free at 1-888-ROWLAND (1-888-769-5263).  For after-hours help contact our 24/7 DUI HOTLINE at 937-776-2671.

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