Expert Defence Against Drink and Drug Driving Allegations
Facing a drink or drug driving allegation can be stressful and confusing. Our network of specialist solicitors has helped hundreds of clients successfully defend against these serious charges, protecting their driving license, reputation, and avoiding costly penalties.
Drink and drug driving offences can take many forms – from being marginally over the limit to failing to provide a specimen or driving with prescription medication in your system. Whatever the nature of your case, having expert legal representation is crucial to securing the best possible outcome. Our network of solicitors specializes in this complex area of law, providing tailored defense strategies for each unique situation.
Types of Drink & Drug Driving Cases We Handle
Defence Against Drink Driving Charges
Our solicitors can help if you've been charged with driving while over the legal alcohol limit. We examine all aspects of your case, from the initial stop to the breath or blood testing procedures, identifying any potential irregularities.
- •Challenging the reliability of breath test equipment
- •Representation in police station interviews
- •Guidance throughout the legal process
Drug Driving Offences
Being charged with drug driving can involve either illegal substances or prescribed medication. Our solicitors can help in both scenarios, particularly in cases where there are medical reasons or procedural errors in testing.
- •Defense for prescription medication cases
- •Challenging blood test procedures and results
- •Expert witness testimony for medical conditions
Failing to Provide a Specimen
Charges for failing to provide a breath, blood or urine sample can carry severe penalties. Our solicitors have extensive experience in defending clients against these charges, especially when there are medical or procedural reasons for the failure.
- •Defense based on medical conditions (such as asthma)
- •Challenging improper police procedure
- •Representation for anxiety or panic-related failures
Special Reasons & Exceptional Hardship
Even if the evidence against you is strong, we can argue "special reasons" or "exceptional hardship" to avoid or reduce a driving ban. Our solicitors are skilled in presenting these arguments effectively.
- •Arguments for spiked drinks or emergency situations
- •Representation for cases involving short distances driven
- •Exceptional hardship arguments to avoid license loss
How Our Solicitors Can Help You
Expert Legal Representation
Our network includes solicitors with extensive experience in drink and drug driving legislation and defense strategies, ensuring you receive the best possible representation for your case.
Customized Defense Strategy
We develop tailored defense strategies based on the specifics of your case, your personal circumstances, and relevant legal precedents.
Comprehensive Support
From initial consultation to case resolution, our solicitors provide full support throughout the entire legal process, keeping you informed at every stage.
Real Case Examples
Case Study: Procedural Error Defense
Our client was charged with drink driving after providing a positive breath test. We identified that police had failed to follow proper procedures when operating the breathalyzer device. The case was dismissed due to this procedural error, saving our client from a 12-month driving ban and heavy fine.
Case Study: Special Reasons Argument
A client was charged with driving with excess alcohol after a reading just over the legal limit. We successfully argued "special reasons" based on evidence that the client's drinks had been spiked at a party. The court accepted our argument and imposed no driving disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What penalties can I face for drink or drug driving?
Penalties typically include a minimum 12-month driving ban (36 months for a second offense within 10 years), unlimited fines up to £5,000, and possibly 6 months imprisonment for the most serious cases. You'll also receive between 3-11 penalty points on your license. The exact penalty depends on the level of alcohol/drugs and your circumstances, which is why having expert legal representation is crucial.
Can I avoid a driving ban if I'm convicted of drink driving?
While a driving ban is mandatory for most drink and drug driving convictions, in exceptional circumstances, you may be able to avoid disqualification. This includes arguing "special reasons" (such as spiked drinks, emergency situations, or very short distances driven) or "exceptional hardship." Our solicitors are experienced in presenting these arguments effectively.
What should I do if I've been arrested for drink or drug driving?
If you've been arrested, it's crucial to seek legal advice immediately. Don't make any statements to police without a solicitor present. Contact us as soon as possible for a free consultation. Our solicitors can attend the police station, provide advice during questioning, and begin building your defense strategy from the earliest stages.