Jordan EllisWhen getting charged with a driving under the influence (DUI), it can be quite complicated to go through the process—especially for first offenders. With all the paperwork and court proceedings, clients may find the experience quite difficult.
DUI lawyers specialize in making sure each client is charged fairly and is given the most appropriate sentence possible for their cases. While they can’t get you out of punishment, they can reduce it to a minimum or a fine.
With that in mind, I have gathered some of the most trusted DUI lawyers in Columbus. Through their expertise, I’m sure that anyone can feel well represented in court.
How much does a DUI lawyer charge in Columbus?
A DUI lawyer in Columbus charges their clients $900 to $5,000 per case. This price can vary based on the lawyer’s experience and expertise, the complexity of the case, and the severity of the charges.
1. Joslyn Law Firm
Address: 501 S High St, OH 43215
Contact Details: +1 614-444-1900
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Joslyn Law Firm was founded in 2011 and has handled over 15,000 criminal cases since. They are consistently recognized by the Columbus CEO Top Lawyer Awards and Super Lawyers, which truly showcase their expertise.
The firm is led by Brian D. Joslyn, who has handled more than 20,000 cases throughout his legal career. Another notable lawyer at the firm is Ryan Shafer, who graduated Cum Laude from the University of Cincinnati.
Their DUI representation services focus on prescription drugs and stimulants. Additionally, they can help in dropping charges for those found with cold and cough medication and sedatives.
Aside from these, they are also great at representing clients for driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) cases. Clients can rest assured that they will deliver the best possible outcomes in their cases and be treated without judgment.
However, the experts here are not as communicative as I’d like, since they only meet clients in court or by phone.
I had an excellent experience working with Ryan Shafer
“I had an excellent experience working with Ryan Shafer and his paralegal, Mackenzie. They were both professional, responsive, and genuinely invested in achieving the best possible outcome for my case. Mackenzie kept me informed every step of the way, and Ryan provided clear, confident guidance that made the legal process much less stressful. I’m very grateful for their hard work and expertise and highly recommend their firm.”
– Leandra Slayton, Google Review
I highly recommend Ryan Shafer and the team at Joslyn Law Firm
“I had the pleasure of working with Ryan Shafer of Joslyn Law Firm, and I’m deeply impressed by his professionalism, attention to detail, and consistent communication throughout my case. He handled every step with care and precision, ensuring I was informed and confident in the process.
Ryan’s dedication and expertise reflect the high standards of Joslyn Law Firm. I truly appreciate the firm’s commitment to excellence and their client-centered approach.
I highly recommend Ryan Shafer and the team at Joslyn Law Firm to anyone seeking reliable, knowledgeable, and compassionate legal representation.”
– DiDi Edwards, Google Review
2. Luftman, Heck & Associates
Address: 150 E Mound St STE 300, OH 43215
Contact Details: +1 614-304-3146
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
With a team of 5 lawyers, Luftman, Heck & Associates has over a decade of experience handling criminal charges. They are incredible at handling minor misdemeanors and have experience in felonies and federal offenses in Ohio.
Benjamin L. Luftman is an amazing lawyer who has tackled some of the most serious felonies and traffic violations over his 13 years of practice. Leigh Bayer, on the other hand, focuses on speeding tickets and, surprisingly, death penalty cases.
Uniquely, Luftman and Bayer work with first- and second-offender DUI cases. Additionally, they have a unique checklist that helps clients know what to do when speaking with the police after being charged with a DUI.
Clients love that they work with college students and those without insurance, which is quite rare compared to other firms. However, they are quite selective with their clients, so be sure to bring enough evidence.
I had an excellent experience working multiple times with Benjamin Luftman
“I had an excellent experience working multiple times with Benjamin Luftman & team. From the very beginning, they were professional, responsive, and extremely knowledgeable. They took the time to explain every step of the process clearly, and made sure I understood my options. Their attention to detail and dedication truly stood out, and I felt confident knowing my case was in good hands. Thanks to their hard work and expertise, the outcome exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of reliable and effective legal representation.
Thank you very much sir for your guidance during difficult time.”
– Krish P, Google Review
The outcome of my case exceeded my expectations
“I had the pleasure of working with Sir Luftman in 2024 and I can’t recommend them highly enough! From our initial consultation to the resolution of my case Sir Luftman demonstrated exceptional professionalism and expertise.
What impressed me most was his ability to really listen to my concerns and provide clear, actionable advice. He kept me informed throughout the entire process, ensuring I understood every step and felt supported.
The outcome of my case exceeded my expectations, and I truly believe it was due to Mr Luftman’s hard work and dedication. If you’re looking for a knowledgeable, compassionate attorney who will fight for you, look no further!
Thank you Sir Luftman, highly appreciate it!!!”
– Vishal Chopra, Google Review
3. Bowen, Scranton, & Olsen
Address: 536 S High St, OH 43215
Contact Details: +1 614-254-6517
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Bowen, Scranton, & Olsen focuses on their so-called “real-deal” approach towards clients. Having experienced this, I found it quite different from other firms due to the level of transparency and communication they provided.
The firm is led by Bryan Bowen, Peter Scranton, and Don Olsen Jr., all of whom are members of the Ohio State Bar Association. Aside from that, they have also published works about their time at the firm.
With their skills, they draw on over 40 years of experience to tackle each case. I appreciate that they turn common DUI cases into a team effort, providing first- and second-offender clients with all the knowledge they need to navigate their cases.
Some clients have used their services to file motions to suppress evidence and challenge unlawful DUI stops. Aside from these, they represent clients for misdemeanors and felony charges.
However, some clients have found their services to be quite expensive.
I had an excellent experience with attorney Don Olsen
“I had an excellent experience working with Attorney Don Olsen. He handled my ticket with a high level of professionalism, clear communication, and genuine dedication. Don successfully negotiated a plea deal that resolved my ticket with no points. He was extremely reliable and followed through on every commitment, including returning calls exactly when promised.
The entire process was smooth and stress-free, and I was kept informed at every stage. I am truly grateful for his assistance and highly recommend him to anyone seeking trustworthy and effective legal representation. Five stars.”
– Ishmael Sheriff, Google Review
Handled my traffic case with great care and professionalism
“Don Olsen handled my traffic case with great care and professionalism. Always communicated each step of the process and went above and beyond to achieve the best possible outcome. Highly recommended!”
– Jocelyn Smith, Google Review
4. Attorney Adam Burke
Address: 625 City Park Ave #200a, OH 43206
Contact Details: +1 614-280-9122
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Attorney Adam Burke offers free consultations, which clients greatly appreciate. With over 30 years of combined experience, Adam’s firm has handled over 3,000 cases since it was established.
Adam has a good standing with the Supreme Court of Ohio and has even represented clients in the Supreme Court of the United States.
He and his firm handle federal and criminal charges, but his specialty is Ohio DUIs. In these scenarios, he is proactive in seeking evidence to reduce charges or to have cases dismissed entirely. Additionally, he handles all the paperwork.
Aside from these, he represents clients who are under the influence of prescription and illegal drugs, and has even prevented clients from losing their licenses.
However, Adam tends to approach cases with careful deliberation, which may result in trials taking longer to conclude.
Very helpful throughout the entire process
“I was extremely happy and satisfied with attorney Mel Fuhrmann and the job that she did for me. She was very helpful throughout the entire process and provided me with everything necessary to get through my situation with a sense of confidence. Mel was great with staying in touch and keeping me updated. I would highly recommend Mel to anyone looking for an attorney and would definitely hire her again if necessary. She was great with helping me when I didn’t know what to do and was unsure about things. I’m extremely thankful she was there for me during a stressful time.”
– Drew K, Google Review
He was attentive, professional, and genuinely committed to my case
“I had an excellent experience working with Jason Helmstetler. From our first meeting, he was attentive, professional, and genuinely committed to my case. He explained the process clearly, kept me updated, and made sure I always felt informed and supported.
Jason’s knowledge of the law and his dedication gave me complete confidence that I was in the best hands. He goes above and beyond for his clients, and it truly shows.
I would highly recommend Jason Helmstetler to anyone in need of a skilled and trustworthy defense attorney.”
– Jake Parrott, Google Review
5. Brandon E. Shroy
Address: 772 S Front St STE 200, OH 43206
Contact Details: +1 614-601-1456
Operating Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Brandon E. Shroy mainly practices criminal defense. He has been serving Columbus since 2006 and has been a prosecutor at the Columbus City Attorney’s Office.
He works closely with his legal assistants, Carly Johnson and Elizabeth McGann, to better understand each case. Through their work, they have won the Best Lawyers Award from Columbus CEO and are recognized by the Columbus Bar Association.
It’s great that while he never guarantees that sentences can be reduced, Brandon does aim to provide clients with the best sentences possible. He also specializes in this field, so clients can rest assured that they are being represented by one of the best in the city.
Other areas of practice include gun charges, sexual offenses, and theft. Brandon has also represented clients in drug possession and trafficking cases, earning widespread praise for his work.
However, do note that this firm doesn’t work with clients who have been charged with 5 or more DUIs.
He’s absolutely in a league of his own
“Brandon Shroy, what can I say… He’s absolutely in a league of his own! Worth every dollar!!! He had a game plan from the very beginning and got 2 SEPARATE cases completely DISMISSED!!! He’s a straight shooter and explains absolutely EVERYTHING to a T, as it’s going on. You can reach out to this man and he ALWAYS returns your calls. Not to mention, he’s well respected at the prosecutor’s office. His assistant, Betsy… is always so pleasant on the phone as well! I won’t be using anyone else from here on out. Just a huge thank you to Brandon and his staff. Outstanding job on all that you do!!! We are truly blessed to even know you!”
– Vanessa Stout, Google Review
We were lucky to retain him
“Brandon’s professional skills – Strong Legal knowledge, Persuasive Communication,
Negotiation Skills and attention to details were at full display with our time with him. Couple that with his personal skills – Integrity and Ethics, and Empathy and Compassion…my sense was he understands the human side of criminal cases; treats clients with respect and without judgment. We were lucky to retain him.”
– Steven Harris, Google Review
