Parramatta Drink Driving Lawyers

Our Experienced Drink Driving Lawyers Provide Expert Legal Advice

Drink driving is a serious offence and can result in the disqualification of your licence, a criminal conviction, a fine and in some cases a term of imprisonment.

It is very important to get the best possible legal advice and representation from a traffic and criminal lawyer who is an expert in dealing with these matters on a regular basis in Parramatta Local Court.

Lamont Lawyers is a Criminal & Traffic Law Firm in Parramatta. We know the court and we know the local magistrates. We know what to say and we know what not to say to ensure the best possible outcome for you.

Getting the best possible result starts with a knowledge of the local court system and its people.

We understand that being disqualified from having a driving license can be devastating for you and your family. Our DUI lawyers have a proven track record of success in drink driving cases. We know how to prepare and advocate in court in relation to your drink driving matter.

Call our Parramatta drink driving lawyers on (02) 9188 0828 24 hours a day, 7 days per week for a free consultation.

Types of Drink Driving Cases

In New South Wales, drink driving charges are categorized based on the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) – also known as Prescribed Concentration of Alcohol (PCA). If you fail a roadside breath test, police can take you to the station for a full breath analysis to determine your exact BAC.

• Low-range drink driving: This applies when your BAC is between 0.05 and 0.079. While considered the least severe drink driving offence, it still carries significant penalties.
• Mid-range drink driving: With a BAC between 0.08 and 0.149, this charge is more serious and results in harsher penalties.
• High-range drink driving: A BAC of 0.15 or higher falls into this category, leading to the most severe penalties, including potential imprisonment.
• Special range drink driving: This applies to novice drivers, provisional drivers, and drivers of heavy vehicles with a BAC between 0.02 and 0.049.

Each type of drink driving charge can result in fines, driver’s licence disqualification, and even imprisonment, making it essential to seek advice from specialist drink driving lawyers.

Penalties for Drink Driving Offences

Drink driving penalties in NSW vary depending on the type of charge, the driver’s BAC level, and the circumstances of the offence. Here’s some of the penalties you could face:

• Fines: These can range from $1,100 to $11,000, depending on the severity of the drink driving offence.
• Licence disqualification: This can last from 3 months to 3 years, significantly impacting your daily life.
• Imprisonment: For high-range drink driving, you could face up to 2 years in prison.
• Mandatory interlock licence order: Repeat offenders may be required to install an interlock device in their motor vehicle.
• Traffic Offenders Intervention Program: Repeat offenders might also need to attend this program.

A conviction for drink driving will also result in a criminal record, underscoring the importance of having an experienced drink driving lawyer by your side.

Disqualification Periods for Drink Driving

The disqualification period for drink driving in New South Wales depends on the type of charge and the driver’s BAC level.

• Low-range drink driving: 3-6 months
• Mid-range drink driving: 6-12 months
• High-range drink driving: 12-24 months
• Special range drink driving: 3-6 months

In some cases, the licence disqualification period can be reduced or even avoided if the driver is dealt with under section 10 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999. Consulting with a specialist drink driving lawyer can help you understand your options.

Section 10 Dismissal for Drink Driving Charges

A Section 10 is a non-conviction sentence that can be imposed by the court for drink driving charges. To be eligible for a section 10 dismissal, you must:

• Plead guilty to the charge
• Have a good driving record
• Have a low BAC level
• Have no prior convictions for drink driving
• Show remorse for the offence

Receiving a Section 10 dismissal means you will not receive a conviction, fine, or licence disqualification. This outcome can significantly reduce the impact on your life, making it crucial to have an experienced drink driving lawyer to advocate for you.

Drink Driving Laws & Myths

There are several myths and misconceptions about drink driving laws in New South Wales. Here are some facts to set the record straight:

• Myth: You can’t get caught for drink driving if you’re under the limit.
• Fact: You can still be charged with drink driving even if you’re under the limit if you’re deemed to be impaired by alcohol.
• Myth: You can’t get a section 10 dismissal if you’ve had a prior conviction for drink driving.
• Fact: You can still be eligible for a section 10 dismissal even if you’ve had a prior conviction for drink driving, depending on the circumstances of the offence.
• Myth: You can’t get a good lawyer to represent you for drink driving charges.
• Fact: There are many experienced drink driving lawyers who can provide effective representation and help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Understanding the laws and regulations surrounding drink driving in New South Wales is essential to avoid the severe consequences of a conviction. If you’re charged with drink driving, contact an experienced drink driving lawyer today to navigate your case effectively.