TOWNSVILLE: Repeat High Range 0.181 DUI Drink Driving

I appeared at Townsville Magistrates Court again recently, representing a client charged with High Range DUI Drink Driving, with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.181.

This was my client's third DUI offence, having previous readings of 0.201 and 0.069.

That said, the previous all occurred more than 5 years ago.

My client had not otherwise lost their licence within the last 5 years.

However, given they blew High Range, they were not eligible to apply for a DUI Work Licence.

My client faced a maximum penalty of 9 months imprisonment, a lifetime licence disqualification and 28 penalty units.

A penalty unit in Queensland is currently worth $121.90.

In addition to this, anyone who pleads or is found guilty in the Magistrates Court must pay the Offender Levy, which is presently worth $114.80. 

Magistrates have a general power to impose up to a lifetime driver’s licence disqualification, above and beyond any legislated disqualification ranges.

My client's role required they transport themselves to locations not properly serviced by public transport, or at all.

I made detailed and lengthy verbal submissions to the Magistrate on the impact which a long disqualification would have had upon my client's well being and lifestyle.

I also drafted detailed written submissions of the relevant case law and legislation.

I was able to persuade the Magistrate that a disqualification of no more than 9 months was appropriate.

My client received a 9 month driver's licence disqualification and a modest fine.

My client was extremely relieved.

DUI Drink Driving is a serious offence.

Wiseman Lawyers specialise in DUI Drink Driving and Traffic Law.

Regards

Andrew Wiseman, Wiseman Lawyers