Best Drunk Driving Lawyers in Edinburgh

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John Pryde and Company

John Pryde and Company

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
English
We are proud to have an exceptional team of Criminal Defence Solicitors with expertise in all of areas Scots Law, committed to representing our clients interests and providing the best defence possible to those who have been accused or charged with a crime.​We can assist with all...
BCKM Solicitors

BCKM Solicitors

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Founded in 1992
50 people in their team
English
Criminal & family solicitors in EdinburghBCKM is a long-established firm of almost 30 years in central Edinburgh. Our solicitors have over 80 years of combined experience in representing clients at court in Scotland.Our legal expertiseCriminal LawAt BCKM Solicitors in Edinburgh, our...
C&N Defence Lawyers

C&N Defence Lawyers

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Founded in 2002
50 people in their team
English
About UsMatthew Nicholson has specialised in criminal defence law since the early 1990’s. In 1998 he was recruited to be one of the first ever public defence lawyers in the UK. After many successes here, he left to set up CN Defence lawyers in 2002. All of the lawyers are in the firm are...
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About Drunk Driving Law in Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Drunk Driving, or Driving Under the Influence (DUI), is a serious offense in Edinburgh and throughout the UK. Under UK law, drivers face penalties if caught with a level of alcohol in their system above the legal limit. This limit is set at 35 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath or 80 milligrams in 100 millilitres of blood. The punishment for drink driving offenders can range from a fine to a driving ban, or even imprisonment in severe cases.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance can be beneficial in various drunk driving situations. A lawyer can guide you through the legal processes, help you understand your rights, and advise on possible defenses. In instances where you believe the field sobriety test or breathalyzer was improperly conducted, or if you are a repeat offender, a lawyer can provide the necessary guidance and advice.

Local Laws Overview

In Scotland, including Edinburgh, the legal drink-drive limit is less than the rest of the UK. The limit is 22 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath or 50 milligrams in 100 millilitres of blood. For a first-time offender, penalties can range from fines up to £5,000, a 12-month driving ban, and imprisonment of up to 6 months. If it's a second offence within 10 years, there's a 3-year driving ban.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the legal alcohol limit in Edinburgh?

The legal alcohol limit in Scotland, including Edinburgh, is 22 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath or 50 milligrams in 100 millilitres of blood.

What if it's my first offense?

If it's your first offense, you face a fine up to £5,000, a 12-month driving ban, and imprisonment of up to 6 months.

Would I need to attend a court hearing?

Yes, if charged with drunk driving, you will need to attend a court hearing where the magistrate decides on the punishment.

Can I refuse to take a breathalyzer test?

Refusal to take a test is a criminal offense in itself and can result in penalties including a driving ban, fines, or imprisonment.

Can a lawyer help me avoid a conviction?

While a lawyer can't guarantee avoiding a conviction, they can guide you, advise on defenses, and possibly advocate for lesser penalties based on your circumstances.

Additional Resources

Drinkaware, Alcohol Focus Scotland, and Road Safety Scotland are organisations that provide valuable information and resources about drink driving. You can also consider contacting the governmental body of Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) for more details about the rules and regulations.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance for a drunk driving offense, it is advised to immediately seek legal advice. Reach out to a legal professional, share the circumstances of your case, and clarify any doubts or questions you might have about the process.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Edinburgh through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Drunk Driving, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Edinburgh, United Kingdom—quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.