Best Drunk Driving Lawyers in Huddersfield

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Switalskis Solicitors

Switalskis Solicitors

Huddersfield, United Kingdom

Founded in 1993
500 people in their team
Providing professional, specialist legal advice to clients since 1993We were established by Stephen Switalski in 1993. Originally we were focused...
English

About Drunk Driving Law in Huddersfield, United Kingdom

Drunk driving, formally known as 'Driving under the Influence' or DUI, is a serious crime in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, just like the rest of the United Kingdom. The law states that anyone found driving with alcohol levels exceeding 80 milligrammes per 100 millilitres of blood, 35 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath or 107 milligrammes per 100 millilitres of urine, is guilty of drunk driving. This offence can attract hefty fines, a driving ban, or even imprisonment.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

When charged with drunk driving, the assistance of a legal professional can be invaluable. Legalities surrounding drunk driving are complicated, and successful navigation requires in-depth knowledge and experience. An expert DUI solicitor can help challenge the validity of breathalyzer tests, argue for decreased fines or lesser charges, provide expert defence in court, and help reduce the overall impact of the situation on your life. Legal help can especially be vital if you’re a repeat offender or if the incident led to injury or loss of life.

Local Laws Overview

The specific local laws pertaining to drunk driving in Huddersfield are governed by the UK's Road Traffic Act of 1988, as well as the Crime and Disorder Act of 1998. Penalties for DUI include a minimum 12-month driving ban, an unlimited fine, up to 6 months in prison, or a combination of the three. Repeat offenders within a ten-year period, or those responsible for fatal accidents due to DUI, face much stiffer penalties including extended prison terms. Furthermore, convictions remain on your driving license for 11 years, which may affect your employment prospects and insurance premiums.

Frequently Asked Questions

What limit is considered as drunk driving?

In the United Kingdom, the alcohol limit for drivers is 80 milligrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood, 35 microgrammes per 100 millilitres of breath or 107 milligrammes per 100 millilitres of urine.

What are the penalties for drunk driving?

Penalties for drunk driving can vary but typically include a minimum driving ban of 1 year, an unlimited fine and up to 6 months in prison.

Can a solicitor help me if I'm charged with drunk driving?

Yes, a trained DUI legal professional can help challenge evidence, provide a reliable defence, potentially get your fines or charges reduced, and guide you through the complex legal process.

Will a drunk driving charge impact my employment?

Yes, a drunk driving conviction stays on your driving record for 11 years and can affect your employment prospects, especially if your job involves driving.

What happens if I'm a repeat offender within 10 years?

If you reoffend within a 10-year period, you may face higher penalties including extended driving bans and longer prison sentences.

Additional Resources

Additional resources include the UK Government website which provides comprehensive information about drinking and driving rules, penalties and advice. Moreover, various organizations like Drinkaware and Alcohol Change UK offer valuable resources dealing with alcohol misuse and rehabilitation programmes.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance for a DUI charge in Huddersfield, the first step is to secure the services of a reputable and experienced local solicitor. Gather all details of your case, including breathalyzer or other test results, eyewitness testimonies, or video footage if any. A proactive approach can contribute towards building a strong defence in court. But remember, the best policy is to avoid drinking and driving altogether.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.