Drink Driving

Being charged with drink driving is serious and often overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time in court. You might be feeling stressed, unsure, or worried about losing your licence or job.

Penalties can include fines, licence disqualification, interlock orders, or even jail, depending on your alcohol reading and history.

Whether you’re dealing with a low-range, mid-range, high-range, or repeat drink driving offence, we have the legal support you need to protect your rights.

An Overview of Drink Driving Offences

Drink driving refers to driving with a Prescribed Concentration of Alcohol (PCA) in your system. It’s commonly known as Low Range PCA, Mid Range PCA, or High Range PCA, depending on your blood alcohol level.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Low Range PCA: 0.05 to less than 0.08
Mid Range PCA: 0.08 to less than 0.15
High Range PCA: 0.15 or more

There’s also Driving Under the Influence (DUI), which can apply when you’re noticeably affected by alcohol, regardless of your reading.

Each offence carries different penalties, but all are criminal charges. A conviction can impact your job, licence, and future.

Penalties You Might Face

Penalties depend on your alcohol reading, prior offences, and whether it’s your first or repeat offence. But here’s what you could be looking at:

Fines up to tens of thousands of dollars
Licence disqualification (minimum and automatic periods apply)
Mandatory interlock programs for many offences
Imprisonment for serious or repeated offences
Criminal record that may affect employment or travel

You could also face higher insurance premiums, and commercial drivers may lose their accreditation.

Can You Defend a Drink Driving Charge?

Yes, and in some cases, quite successfully.

Common defences include:

Honest and reasonable mistake – you believed you were under the limit
Challenging the reading – if the device was faulty or used incorrectly
Not driving – if it can’t be proven you were behind the wheel
Breath test too late – if it happened more than two hours after driving

Each case is unique. The right defence depends on the facts, your personal history, and how the evidence was gathered.

How CIA Lawyers Can Help

At CIA Lawyers, we know the stress and uncertainty that comes with a drink driving charge. Whether you’re worried about losing your licence, your job, or your clean record, we’re here to help.

We handle every aspect of your case, from reviewing the evidence and advising you on your options, to preparing strong submissions for court. If you’re eligible, we’ll also help you apply for interlock exemptions, restricted work licences, or Section 10 outcomes.

Charged with drink driving? Don’t risk going to court alone. Contact the team at CIA Lawyers to speak with a drink driving specialist today. We’re here to fight for your rights, your licence, and your future.

FAQs

Q: Can I get a work licence if I lose my licence for drink driving?

A: NSW does not offer restricted or work licences for drink driving. However, in some situations, we may be able to minimise disqualification periods or seek a non-conviction order.

Q: Do I have to go to court for a low-range drink driving offence?

A: Yes. All drink driving charges require a court appearance. Even low-range offences can lead to a criminal record, so legal advice is important.

Q: Will I get a criminal record for drink driving?

A: Yes—unless the court deals with your matter under Section 10, which avoids a conviction. This depends on several factors, including your record, the alcohol reading, and how well your case is presented.

Our Process

1. Consultation

Connect with a qualified solicitor to discuss your immigration needs and determine the best strategy for securing your visa under Australian immigration law.

2. Application

Our legal consultants will guide you through the preparation of all required documentation, including any necessary written or oral submissions.

3. Approval

We stand by your side throughout the entire process, advocating on your behalf and supporting you until your visa application is successfully approved.