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DUI charges are serious business. If an officer charges you with DUI, the best thing you can do is to hire a DUI lawyer Sunshine Coast who can help you navigate the legal system. DUI charges can result in jail time, loss of driving privileges, and heavy fines, so it is best to have an experienced DUI attorney on your side.
There are many different ways to deal with a DUI charge, and your DUI attorney will be able to advise you on the best course of action for your particular situation. For DUI charges, do not hesitate to contact a DUI attorney who can help you fight the charges and protect your rights.
How to Deal With a Drink Driving Charge
Here are 10 steps you may want to consider when you are charged with drink driving in Queensland:
1. Understand The Charge
When you are charged with drink driving in Queensland, it is important to understand the implications of the charge. If you are found guilty, you will face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 days imprisonment and a fine of $2000.
You will also lose your licence for a minimum of 12 months. If you are involved in an accident while drink driving, the penalties will be even more severe.
2. Speak To A Lawyer
The next thing to do is to speak to a lawyer as soon as possible. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action and help you to understand the charges against you. In addition, they will be able to represent you in court and ensure that your rights are protected.
When making the decision to speak to a lawyer, it is important to choose one with experience in defending drink-driving charges as they can provide you with the best possible chance of success.
3. Decide How To Plead
You can plead guilty or not guilty. If you plead guilty, you will be sentenced by the court. If you plead not guilty, your case will go to trial. You can choose to have a judge-alone trial or a jury trial. If you are found not guilty, you will be acquitted and your license will be returned to you. However, if you are found guilty, you will be convicted and your license will be suspended.
4. Attend Court
When you are charged with drink driving in Queensland, you will be required to attend court. This is a criminal offence and the penalties can be severe. For this reason, it is advisable to attend all scheduled court appearances pertinent to your case.
5. Be Prepared For The Outcome
When charged with drink driving in Queensland, it is important to be prepared for the outcome. The penalties for drink driving are severe and can include a prison sentence, a fine, or a license disqualification. However, there are a number of options available to you, and the best course of action will depend on your individual circumstances.
6. Pay Your Fine
When charged with drink driving in Queensland, it is best to be aware of the consequences and options available to you. If you choose to pay your fine, you will be required to attend a mandatory education program and your licence will be suspended for a minimum of three months. You will also have a criminal conviction recorded against your name.
7. Serve Your Driving Ban
When you receive a charge for drink driving in Queensland, you will be subject to a mandatory driving ban. This means that you will not be able to drive for a minimum of 9 months. However, there is a way that you can reduce your ban by completing a drink driving education course.
When you complete the course, you may reduce your driving ban by three months. However, it is best to note that you can only do this once every five years. If you are caught drink driving again within five years of completing the course, you will not be eligible for another reduction in your ban.
8. Get Insurance
To protect yourself financially, it is important to have insurance. Most policies will cover you for accidents that occur while you are driving, even if you are over the legal limit. However, it is important to check your policy carefully to make sure that you are adequately covered.
9. Be Careful In The Future
It is best to be aware of the consequences of drink driving before deciding whether or not to get behind the wheel. If convicted, you may face fines, jail time, or a loss of your license. The best way to avoid these penalties is to simply not drink and drive.
10. Complete A Drink Driving Course
The aim of the course is to educate participants about the dangers of drink driving and to help them change their behavior. The course usually involves classroom-based learning as well as practical sessions and takes place for several weeks.
Contact Smith Criminal Law for reliable DUI lawyers!
