Drink Driving Solicitors
Alcohol offences, such as failing to provide a specimen and being drunk while in charge of a vehicle, all carry potential for disqualification, as well as a significant fine, possible custodial sentence or community order. This could result in you losing your job or livelihood. For that reason, if you find yourself in this situation, it is important that you seek assistance from an expert drinking driving solicitor.
The driving offence team at Burton Copeland, led by Gwyn Lewis – who has over 30 years’ experience in defending drivers accused of committing offences – we will guide you through the legal process step-by-step, helping you defend your interests and sidestep severe punishments.
We know that the Court process is daunting and so we look to provide tailored assistance to each client guiding them through the system. To speak to a lawyer about a drink driving allegation, contact us now by calling 0161 827 9500 . Alternatively, let us know that you’d like to hear from us by filling in our online form.
More about drink driving offences
There are three types of drink driving offences that you can be prosecuted for, such as a dr10 conviction, each requiring the prosecution to provide sufficient evidence.
Drink driving is one of the most technical areas of motoring law and provides a wealth of defences to those with sufficient knowledge. Burton Copeland have an unparalleled ability in this field and have successfully defended cases many would have presumes hopeless.
If the police suspect you of driving while over the legal alcohol limit, there are three way you can be tested. We take a look at what they are and what the limit is for each:
- By breath – over 35 mg of alcohol in 100 ml of breath
- By blood – over 80 mg of alcohol in your system
- By urine – over 107 mg of alcohol in 100 ml of urine
It’s often often difficult to predict when you’ll be over the limit as it depends on a variety of factors. Many of the defences however, relate to the procedure followed by the police rather than the actions of a driver so do not be afraid to ask for our assistance as you may have a defence.
What are the penalties?
A punishment for a drink driving offence depends on how far over the limit you are, and whether any other aggravating factors exist. The minimum penalty you’ll receive for drink driving is a 12-month disqualification, however if you have a history of driving under the influence of alcohol within the last 10 years, you can expect a three-year ban. Many Courts can however, be persuaded to offer courses that reduce the disqualification by 25%.
In the worst case, you could face a prison sentence of up to six months and/or a fine of up to £5,000. A conviction can also result in the following:
- Loss of employment
- Extortionate insurance premiums
- Travel visa restrictions
- A criminal record
If you’re worried that you’re going to be adversely affected by a conviction, all hope is not lost. We will tackle your case head on and if it’s tactically wise to plead guilty, we can help mitigate the drink driving penalties, so you leave with a more favourable sentence.
How can I avoid disqualification?
Even where the prosecution are able to prove you had driven whilst over the prescribed limit, there are some mitigating circumstances that can be utilised. Although they may not completely defend the allegations, they can be used to reduce the severity of your punishment and are often called ‘Special Reasons Arguments’.
Examples of mitigating circumstances include:
- Spiked or laced drinks
- Travelling a short distance
- Driving in an emergency
Arguments involving mitigating circumstances are incredibly complex as they often involve assistance from experts and cross examination of witnesses. However, our team of defence solicitors are exceptionally well versed in such matters and have an enviable track record.
Why choose Burton Copeland?
Our solicitors are experts in this field and handle all cases professionally, confidently and without judgement. The department is led by Gwyn Lewis, with over 30 years of experience, you could not be better protected and represented. We can help you whether or not this is your first drink driving offence.
We focus on getting you the best possible outcome so your life isn’t further disrupted by the allegations against you. This includes tailoring our approach to match your situation, providing expert representation and providing advice that is both resourceful and resolute.
Contact us today
If you have been caught driving under the influence of alcohol and need legal assistance, our team is waiting to hear from you. From our offices based in Manchester, we are able to help drivers across the UK that have been accused of alcohol related offending. Call 0161 827 9500 or fill in our online form and we will contact you as soon as possible.
