What to do when charged with drink-driving

Punishments for drink driving depend on the level of alcohol found in your system, this is referred to as Prescribed Concentration of Alcohol (PCA). 

Drink driving includes low range, mid-range and high range concentrations of alcohol.

The Court takes into account two concerns when determining your punishment:

1. The prescribed concentration of alcohol in your system,
2. and whether or not it is your first offence.

The answer to these concerns will determine the severity of the punishment. 

Low-range drink driving holds the following maximum punishments:

• First offence;
  • $2,200 fine
  • 6 months disqualification
• Second or subsequent offence;
  • $3,300 fine
  • Unlimited disqualification at the Court’s discretion

Mid-range drink driving holds the following maximum punishments:

• First offence;
  • $2,200 fine
  • 9 months imprisonment
• Second or subsequent offence;
  • $3,300 fine
  • 12 months imprisonment

High-range drink driving holds the following maximum punishments:

• First offence;
  • $3,300 fine
  • 18 months imprisonment
• Second or subsequent offence;
  • $5,500 fine
  • 2-year imprisonment

For drink-driving offences, you may also face automatic disqualification or suspension from driving. In some cases, the Court may also require you to fit an interlock device into your vehicle.

If you have been charged with drink-driving, legal representation will ensure you have the best chance at a defence.

Our drink driving solicitors have an excellent track record of successful outcomes in drink driving matters.  Their years of experience mean our drink driving lawyers have the knowledge needed to defend your drink driving case. 

If your drink driving matter is going to court, look no further than the drinking driving solicitors at the Australian Legal Practice to defend your charges.

Call our drink driving lawyers on (02) 8084 9929 to have an experienced drink driving lawyer on your side.

FAQs

What should you do if charged with drink driving?

If charged with drink driving, it is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. A drink driving solicitor can explain the charges, potential penalties, and the available legal options. Early legal guidance helps prepare a defense and improves the chances of achieving a better outcome in court.

What are the penalties for drink driving?

Penalties for drink driving can include fines, licence disqualification, and in more serious cases, imprisonment. The severity of the penalty depends on the prescribed concentration of alcohol (PCA) in the driver’s system and whether the offence is a first or repeat offence.

What does Prescribed Concentration of Alcohol (PCA) mean?

Prescribed Concentration of Alcohol (PCA) refers to the amount of alcohol detected in a driver’s bloodstream. Drink driving offences are generally classified into low-range, mid-range, and high-range PCA levels, and these levels help determine the seriousness of the offence and the penalties imposed by the court.

Can you go to jail for drink driving?

Yes, imprisonment is possible for certain drink driving offences. Mid-range and high-range PCA offences may carry potential jail sentences, especially for repeat offenders. Courts consider the alcohol level and the driver’s offence history when determining the appropriate punishment.

Can you lose your licence for drink driving?

Yes, drivers charged with drink driving can face licence suspension or disqualification. The court may impose a mandatory disqualification period depending on the PCA level and whether it is a first or subsequent offence. In some cases, an interlock device may also be required before driving privileges are restored.