Facing a drink driving charge can be a stressful and life-altering experience. Whether you have been accused of driving over the legal alcohol limit or being in charge of a vehicle while intoxicated, securing expert legal representation is crucial. Our dedicated team of drink driving solicitors in London specialises in defending clients against all types of drink driving offences, providing clear advice and robust representation to protect your rights and minimise the impact on your life.
Understanding Drink Driving Law in the UK
Drink driving offences are governed primarily by the Road Traffic Act 1988, which outlines two main charges where legal help from a drunk driving lawyer is often required:
- Driving or attempting to drive a motor vehicle while above the legal alcohol limit (Section 5(1)(a))
- Being in charge of a motor vehicle while above the legal alcohol limit (Section 5(1)(b))
The law sets strict alcohol limits for drivers:
| Test Type | Legal Limit (England, Wales, Northern Ireland) |
|---|---|
| Breath | 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres |
| Blood | 80 milligrammes per 100 millilitres |
| Urine | 107 milligrammes per 100 millilitres |
If you are found to exceed these limits, you could face serious penalties including driving disqualification, fines, and even imprisonment.
How Our Drink Driving Solicitors Can Help
Our drink driving solicitors provide expert advice and representation tailored to your individual circumstances. We assist clients at every stage, from the initial police investigation through to court hearings. Our services include:
- Case assessment and advice: We carefully review the evidence, including breath, blood, or urine test results, and police procedures to identify any weaknesses or procedural errors.
- Defence strategy: Our drunk driving attorneys explore all possible defences, such as the ‘hip flask defence’ (where alcohol was consumed after driving), challenges to the reliability of breathalyser results, or questioning whether you were actually driving or in charge of the vehicle.
- Mitigation: If you accept responsibility, our solicitors prepare compelling mitigation to present to the court, aiming to reduce penalties such as driving bans or custodial sentences.
- Representation in court: We act as your advocates in Magistrates’ Court, ensuring your case is presented clearly and effectively.
- Appeals and licence restoration: If necessary, we assist with appeals or applications to reduce disqualification periods and help you regain your driving licence as soon as possible.
Penalties for Drink Driving Offences
The consequences of a drink driving conviction can be severe:
- First offence: Minimum 12-month driving ban, fines, and up to 26 weeks imprisonment.
- Being ‘drunk in charge’: Up to 12-month driving ban and up to 6 weeks imprisonment.
- Second offence within 10 years: Mandatory driving ban of 3 to 5 years.
- Additional consequences: Increased insurance premiums, impact on employment, and travel restrictions.
Our drink drive solicitors understand the gravity of these penalties and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
Defences Our Drink Driving Lawyers Explore
Not every drink driving charge results in conviction. Our solicitors investigate all potential defences, including:
- You were not driving or attempting to drive.
- You were not on a public road or place.
- Alcohol was consumed after driving (hip flask defence).
- Procedural errors by the police during testing or arrest.
- Inaccuracies or malfunctions in breath, blood, or urine testing equipment.
Each case is unique, and our drink driving solicitor team will provide honest advice on the strength of your defence and the best course of action.
Common Special Reasons in Drink Driving Cases
Our solicitors frequently encounter the following Special Reasons arguments:
1. Short Distance Travelled
If the distance driven while over the legal alcohol limit was very short—such as moving a vehicle a few yards to a safer location—this may be considered a Special Reason. The court recognises that minimal driving reduces the risk posed to other road users and may allow for a reduced or avoided ban.
2. Spiked or Laced Drinks
In cases where a driver unknowingly consumed alcohol due to a spiked or laced drink, the court may accept this as a Special Reason. Successfully arguing this requires detailed evidence, including witness statements and sometimes expert testimony, to demonstrate lack of intent and reduced culpability.
3. Emergency Situations
Driving in a genuine emergency—such as transporting someone to hospital when emergency services are unavailable—can constitute a Special Reason. The court will consider whether all other alternatives were reasonably explored and whether a “reasonable and sober” person would have acted similarly under the circumstances.
Why Choose Our Drink Driving Solicitors in London?
- Specialist expertise: We focus exclusively on motoring offences, with extensive experience in drink driving cases.
- Client-focused approach: We listen carefully to your situation and tailor our advice to your needs.
- Transparent fees: Clear, upfront pricing with no hidden costs.
- Strong advocacy: Skilled negotiators and courtroom advocates who fight to protect your rights.
- Support throughout: From initial consultation to final resolution, we guide you every step of the way.
Contact Our Drink Driving Lawyers Today
If you are facing a drink driving charge, don’t delay. Early legal advice can make a significant difference to the outcome of your case. Contact our experienced drink driving solicitors in London for a confidential consultation. We are here to protect your future and help you navigate this challenging time with confidence.