Drink driving is an offence that is committed by all sections of society. More often than not it is committed by people who feel ok to drive. It may be the case that drinks were consumed the previous day and the driver mistakenly believed that they would now be under the limit.
Sentencing for Drink Driving
If you are found guilty, or you plead guilty the starting point for sentence is a minimum 12 month disqualification. The ban is not considered by the Court to be punishment but a consequence of being over the limit.
Not only will you face disqualification, but you can be punished further by the courts. You will be made subject to a financial penalty, a community penalty or in more serious cases you may be at risk of a prison sentence even if this is your first conviction. The ban may be significantly longer than 12 months, depending on how far over the drink driving limit you were.
There are far-reaching consequences that many do not consider. You will like suffer restrictions on future employment and travel to certain countries. The cost of motor insurance in the years following conviction is likely to increase significantly.
Defending Drink Driving Cases
It can be possible to avoid a disqualification if you have “special reasons” which will provide a partial excuse for committing the offence. Examples can include having your drink “spiked”, the shortness of distance driven, or driving in a genuine emergency (usually medical) when no other options were available. Such reasons will be specific to each individual case. Our team of experienced lawyers will be able to advise you on whether you have any special reasons available. Poole Alcock solicitors have an expert team on hand to explore all of the options available to you.
Even if your decision is to plead guilty, you will need representation at Court. We will ensure that all of the circumstances surrounding the incident and your personal life are put to the Court on your behalf.
Defending Drink Driving throughout the UK
If you, or anyone you know, has been arrested and/or charged with drink driving, it is essential that you contact our experienced team of lawyers specialising in motoring law at the earliest opportunity. We will discuss your case and any options that may be available to you. We have experienced solicitors who deal with these offences on a daily basis in Courts throughout the UK. Poole Alcock has expert defence solicitors based in offices across Cheshire, the North West and the Midlands, including Birmingham, Manchester, Crewe, Chester, Alsager, Congleton, Sandbach, Northwich, Nantwich and Wilmslow.
You may be eligible for legal aid, subject to a means test. Click here to complete our legal aid eligibility to see if you are eligible for public funding.
Alternatively, we are happy to discuss your case with you over the telephone. Call us today on 01270 256665 or contact us using this form and we will call you back to discuss your case.
