Being charged with drinking and driving for the first time can be an unpleasant experience, leaving you unsure about what to anticipate or how to proceed. To make matters more complicated, DUI laws differ by jurisdiction, making it necessary to have local representation for your defence. To effectively challenge DUI charges, you will require a criminal lawyer who is knowledgeable about the DUI laws specific to your region.
It's crucial to be aware of your rights as a driver and comprehend the potential consequences of the charges you're facing. Ultimately, having a competent lawyer to navigate you through the entire legal process is crucial to resolving any charges against you.
Penalties of your 1st DUI
According to the Canadian Criminal Code, impaired driving (DUI) refers to operating or controlling a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Alleged Crimes under a DUI Charge in Canada
- Impaired driving
- Over 80 mg of alcohol in 100 ml of blood (Blood Alcohol Concentration or BAC)
- Failing to provide a breath sample
Understanding the Penalties for First-Time DUI Offenders
- If convicted of your first offence, your ability to drive will be prohibited for one to three years.
- A fine of $1,000
- A jail sentence of up to 18 months (if no one was injured or killed)
- A minimum of one year driving a car fitted with an ignition interlock device
- Drivers’ licence suspension
- Mandatory attendance at an education and treatment program
If impaired driving results in bodily harm or death, or if other aggravating factors are present (such as an open container of drugs or alcohol in the vehicle or the presence of a child during the arrest), the penalties for the offence can significantly increase.
Jail Time for First-Time DUI Offenders
Except in cases where injury or death has occurred, it is rare for a first DUI offence in Canada to result in imprisonment.
Exploring the Consequences of a First DUI Offence
Court Appearance: To face the charges against you, you must appear in court. During your appearance, you can plead and present your case details.
Licence Suspension: Your driver's licence will be immediately suspended if you are found guilty, typically for a year. The court sets specific requirements that you must meet to have it reinstated. First-time offenders may be able to reduce the suspension period through the Ignition Interlock Program.
Ignition Interlock Program: In Canada, first-time offenders may be required to participate in the Ignition Interlock Program to regain their driver's licence. The program mandates the installation of an interlock ignition device in your car, which will be regularly inspected by an expert. You must blow into the device before starting the car and at random intervals while driving to confirm that you are not under the influence of alcohol.
Fines: If you plead guilty or are convicted of driving under the influence, you will probably have to pay a fine as part of your sentence. The amount of the fine varies depending on the severity of the offence and any additional aggravating circumstances.
Additional Costs: It's important to note that the fine doesn't include mandatory treatment program fees, impoundment and towing fees, licence reinstatement fees, or expenses related to leasing and maintaining ignition interlock devices.
Increased Insurance Rates: Once you have been convicted of a DUI, most insurance companies will refuse to insure you or impose significantly higher premiums. This is because driving under the influence is a violation of policy terms. If you can't obtain coverage from a private insurance company, you can consider facility association insurance. However, this option may come with prohibitively high premiums that make it impractical.
Mandatory attendance at a DUI program: As part of your sentence, you may be required to attend an alcohol education program. This program can help you understand the risks associated with driving under the influence and provide guidance on how to avoid it in the future.
Criminal Record: A criminal record will be attached to your name if you are found guilty, which can be inconvenient and unpleasant, particularly when seeking employment or undergoing a background check.
Duration of DUI Record in Canada
If you receive a DUI conviction in Canada that leads to a criminal record, it will be visible in law enforcement databases, including the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC). However, you can apply for a record suspension or a pardon to eliminate the DUI conviction from a background check, but it can take up to five years to obtain. It's essential to note that even if you are not convicted and do not have a criminal record, the DUI charge will still be kept on file with the police.
International Travel Restrictions after a First DUI
Travelling from Canada to the United States with a DUI conviction usually results in permission to enter the country. Nonetheless, DUI is classified as a criminal offence, so you may still encounter the risk of being denied entry. Carrying a certified copy of the official court document with you at all times is a wise precaution.
Defending a First-Time DUI Offence
When charged with a DUI in Canada, it's crucial to request a criminal lawyer as soon as possible. You are entitled to legal representation, even if you believe that you were driving under the influence.
To build an effective defence against a DUI charge, your criminal lawyer will begin by reviewing the evidence against you, including technical data collected at the scene of the incident. In some cases, arresting officers may make mistakes during the arrest or violate your charter rights during the charging process. Additionally, evidence presented in court may be inadmissible or open to question.
If your lawyer can demonstrate that errors or breaches occurred, it may result in the outright dismissal of the case.
Here is an example:
- Police violating your rights can result in the exclusion of the breathalyzer certificate as evidence.
- In most cases, excluding the breathalyzer certificate can lead to a successful outcome for your trial.
- An experienced criminal lawyer can work with the Crown prosecution to minimize the consequences in case your case goes to trial.
- They can vigorously defend your interests and even reduce the severity of your sentence if you're convicted.
If you're facing a DUI charge, it's advisable to take advantage of a free consultation to understand your legal standing and the required course of action. A knowledgeable criminal lawyer can provide guidance and potentially help you secure a case dismissal or reduced sentence for a first offence.