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In Leicester, as in the greater part of the United Kingdom, drunk driving is classified as a serious offence. This involves operating a motor vehicle while one's alcohol levels are above the legally permissible limit; in the UK this stands at 80 milligrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood. Drunk driving laws are primarily governed by two acts: the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. Potential penalties include fines, driving disqualifications, and in the most severe cases, imprisonment.
Legal representation is vital if you’ve been charged with a drunk driving offence. A skilled lawyer can guide you through the legal process, challenge the prosecution's evidence, advise on plea bargaining, represent you at trial, and help mitigate potential penalties. If your livelihood depends on your driving licence, a lawyer may be able to argue exceptional hardship, potentially saving you from a driving ban.
In Leicester, the law requires that any person driving, attempting to drive, or in charge of a vehicle on the road (or other public place) should not be under the influence of alcohol. The legal limit for drivers is 80 milligrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood, 35 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath or 107 milligrammes per 100 millilitres of urine. Penalties can be severe and remain on your driving record for 11 years.
Penalties can range from a fine and a 12-month driving ban to a heavy fine and six months imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offence. If it's a second offence within 10 years, a minimum of a three-year driving ban applies.
Refusal to provide a specimen for analysis, without reasonable cause, is a procedural offence and may lead to further fines or even imprisonment.
While you have the right to self-represent, legal proceedings can be complex. It's generally advisable to seek professional legal help to navigate the system effectively and improve your chances.
Yes, you can appeal against both your sentence and conviction. This should be done as soon as possible and typically within 21 days after the magistrate court's decision.
'Drink Drive Rehabilitation' is a course designed to prevent reoffending. If offered and completed, it can reduce your driving ban by up to 25%. Eligibility usually depends on your offence's severity and previous convictions.
You may consider reaching out to organisations like the Citizens Advice Bureau for free advice. The Crown Prosecution Service and Leicester City Council also provide useful resources on local drunk driving laws.
If you require legal assistance, consider contacting a solicitor specializing in drunk driving offences. Research the solicitor's qualifications and track record, ensure they are registered with the Solicitors Regulation Authority, and that they have a good understanding of local Leicester and UK laws.
