Columbus, Ohio OVI / DUI & Criminal Defense AttorneyAggressive Defense. Proven Results.
Being charged with an OVI, DUI, or crime in Central Ohio can feel like the ground has shifted beneath you. Attorney Steven T. Fox personally defends your rights, your license, and your future — from the first phone call to the final resolution. Trusted. Respected. Results-driven — a decade defending Central Ohio.
Why Central Ohio Trusts Steve
25+ Years Defending the Accused Across Central Ohio
25+
Years of criminal, traffic & OVI defense
1,000s
Cases handled across Central Ohio
Former
Franklin County Public Defender
NHTSA
Trained in field sobriety testing
100%
Focused on criminal, traffic & OVI defense
Criminal Defense & OVI / DUI Attorney
How We Can Help You
Whether you're facing an OVI charge, a criminal accusation, or a license suspension, the firm is ready to build your defense and fight for the best possible outcome.OVI / DUI Defense
Aggressive, science-based defense for first-time and repeat OVI charges. We challenge the stop, the field tests, and the chemical evidence to protect your license. Learn MoreCriminal Defense
From misdemeanors to felonies — theft, assault, drug, and domestic violence charges — we defend your rights, your record, and your freedom at every stage. Learn MoreLicense Suspension & BMV
We handle Administrative License Suspension appeals and BMV hearings to help you keep driving legally while your case moves forward. Learn More
Local Knowledge, Better Results
Courts We Serve Throughout Central Ohio
We appear in courts across Central Ohio every day. That local experience — knowing the judges, prosecutors, and procedures — becomes your strategic advantage.
Franklin County Municipal CourtColumbus, OH
Franklin County Common Pleas CourtColumbus, OH
Madison County Municipal CourtLondon, OH
Madison County Common Pleas CourtLondon, OH
Dublin Mayor's CourtDublin, OH
Grove City Mayor's CourtGrove City, OH
Hilliard Mayor's CourtHilliard, OH
Upper Arlington Mayor's CourtUpper Arlington, OH
Worthington Mayor's CourtWorthington, OH
Gahanna Mayor's CourtGahanna, OH
Reynoldsburg Mayor's CourtReynoldsburg, OH
Delaware Municipal CourtDelaware, OH
Marysville Municipal CourtMarysville, OH
Union County Common Pleas CourtMarysville, OH
Circleville Municipal CourtCircleville, OH
Fairfield County Municipal CourtLancaster, OH
Local Insight. Real Advantage.
We know how cases like yours tend to move through each courthouse — and we use that experience to protect your license, your record, and your future. View All Areas We Serve
Why Clients Choose Our Firm
Experienced. Strategic. Results-Driven.
The firm pairs more than a decade of courtroom experience with a personal, hands-on approach — so every client gets a defense built around the facts of their case.
Experienced Advocate
More than a decade of focused OVI, DUI, and criminal defense across Central Ohio courts.Strategic Defense
We examine every detail — the stop, the testing, the paperwork — to build the strongest case.Clear Communication
You'll always understand your options, explained in plain English, at every step.Focused On Results
A deliberately limited caseload means your goals get real, personal attention.116 five-star reviews across 117+ verified Google & Avvo ratings
In Their Own Words
Clients We've Stood Beside
“I'm incredibly grateful for Steve's help during a very difficult time in my life. He was very professional, supportive, and kept me informed every step of the way. Thanks to his hard work and expertise, my case turned out far better than I expected. I highly recommend him to anyone needing strong and honest representation.”
“I was very pleased with Steve's representation and the outcome of my case. Steve has an impeccable reputation and exceptional knowledge of the court system that definitely worked in my favor.”
“I highly recommend Steven Fox. It's been 9.5 yrs since my last OVI, this was my 3rd OVI offense. I was facing possibly six months in jail, possible loss of license for 3-4 yrs, according to my friends that work at the courthouse.”
What To Expect
The Criminal Defense Process
We guide you every step of the way, so you always know what comes next — and never face the court alone.
1
ArrestCharged and released — often with a license suspension already in motion.
2
ArraignmentYou enter a plea; we address time-sensitive license issues right away.
3
PretrialWe review reports, video, and testing — and file motions to suppress bad evidence.
4
NegotiationWe push the prosecutor for a dismissal, reduction, or better resolution.
5
TrialIf the State won't be fair, we're prepared to fight your case in court.
6
ResolutionWe work toward the outcome that best protects your record and future.
Answers, Fast
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between an OVI and a DUI in Ohio?
They describe the same thing. Ohio has used the term OVI — Operating a Vehicle Impaired — since 2004, while “DUI” remains the more common everyday term. An OVI can be based on actual impairment by alcohol or drugs, or on a chemical test result at or above the legal limit.
How soon do I need a lawyer after an arrest?
As soon as possible. License-related deadlines can arise within days of an OVI arrest, and early representation lets your attorney protect your driving privileges and preserve evidence before it disappears.
Will I lose my license?
Not necessarily. An Administrative License Suspension often begins at arrest, but it can be challenged, and limited driving privileges are frequently available. Acting quickly gives you the most options.
Do you offer free consultations and payment plans?
Yes. Your initial consultation is always free and confidential, and the firm offers flat fees and payment plans so you know the cost of your defense from the start.
Do I need an attorney for a first-offense OVI?
Yes. A first OVI is a first-degree misdemeanor with mandatory consequences and a permanent record that cannot be sealed in Ohio. Because first offenses often turn on technical issues with the stop or testing, they are frequently very defensible when handled early.