Drink driving is a serious offence with severe penalties.
Whether you are a first-time offender or have faced similar charges in the past, it is important to understand the implications of your charge. Contact Crawford & Duncan Lawyers as soon as possible to get expert legal representation.
What are the possible outcomes for drink driving charges in Sydney NSW?
Depending on the driver’s blood alcohol level and the type of licence held, the penalties are as follows – or find out more here.
Novice range (0.00 to 0.019)
For drivers who hold a learner, P1 or P2 licence, the penalties include fines, suspension of licence, and a requirement to complete an alcohol interlock program. Repeat offenders may face harsher penalties.
Low (0.05 to 0.079) and Special Range (0.02 to 0.049)
Low novice and special range can be given on the spot fine and 3 months suspension (no interlock) second or subsequent offences of Low, novice or special range would result in on the spot suspension and the matter being put before the Local Court and if convicted automatic and minimum periods of disqualified (not called suspension if imposed by the court) apply interlock orders are made unless the Court grants an interlock exemption order. Repeat offenders may face harsher penalties, including imprisonment.
Mid range (0.08 to 0.149) to High Range (over 0.15)
For mid range and high range if convicted you will be subject to automatic or minimum periods of disqualification and to an interlock order. Mid range (0.08 to 0.149): For drivers who hold a full licence, the penalties include fines, suspension of licence, and a criminal conviction. Repeat offenders may face harsher penalties, including imprisonment. High range (over 0.15): For drivers who hold a full licence, the penalties include fines, suspension of licence, and a criminal conviction. Repeat offenders may face harsher penalties, including imprisonment.
It’s worth noting that these penalties are a guide, and a court will take into account the circumstances of the offence and the offender’s previous driving record when determining the penalty.
Why Choose Crawford & Duncan Lawyers?
What the benefit of having Crawford & Duncan Lawyers appear for you is the possibility of avoiding a conviction by getting a section 10 (1)(a) proven and dismissed without conviction so no disqualification. Or 9(1)(b) Community Release Order without conviction which again means no disqualification or further penalty .
What is a section 10?
The Court has the power under Section 10 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999 (NSW) to dismiss a charge without recording a conviction. If the Court can be persuaded to exercise this power, this is known as ‘getting a Section 10.’ If you get a Section 10 you will not be convicted of the drink driving offence and you will not lose your licence.
We can advise you on your options and help you defend your drink driving charge in Sydney, NSW. You have the right to the best defence possible to obtain the best possible outcome for your case.
Secure your future and protect your rights – Contact Crawford & Duncan Lawyers today to request a callback from the traffic law experts and discuss your drink driving charges. Get the right advice.
