Being caught drink driving and being faced charges can with be unnerving. The consequences can be life changing – not only can you lose your licence, but it could impact your job, your finances, your relationship and potentially your ability to travel abroad. Understanding what happens next and how to respond is therefore crucial.

What Does the Law Say?

Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, it is an offence to drive or attempt to drive with alcohol levels above the legal limit. For England and Wales, that means:

  • 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath
  • 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood
  • 107 milligrams per 100 millilitres of urine

If you’re found to be over the limit, the penalties can be serious. A driving ban of at least 12 months is standard, and you may also face a fine, community service, or even up to six months in prison for particularly serious cases. Not only that, but you’ll also have a criminal record, which can impact employment and insurance costs.

What Should You Do First?

The most important thing is to stay calm and cooperate with the police. Refusing to provide a breath, blood, or urine sample can lead to harsher penalties than the original offence.

Once you’ve been charged, seek legal advice immediately. Drink driving cases often turn on technical details such as whether the breathalyser was properly calibrated, whether the correct procedure was followed, or whether there are medical factors that could have affected the reading. A specialist solicitor can review the evidence and advise on whether you have grounds to challenge the charge or mitigate the penalty.

Are There Any Defences?

There are defences against drink driving charges, but only in specific circumstances. For example, if you consumed alcohol after driving, the so-called “hip flask” defence, or if the police failed to follow correct procedure during testing, these could be relevant. Medical conditions such as diabetes can also affect breathalyser results. These are complex arguments, and getting the right legal advice and representation is essential to present your case effectively.

Can You Reduce the Penalty?

If you plead guilty, the court may offer you the chance to attend a drink-drive rehabilitation course. Completing this course can reduce your driving ban by up to 25%, which can make a significant difference to your day-to-day life.

Why Legal Advice Matters

A drink driving conviction isn’t just a temporary inconvenience; it can have long-term consequences for your career, your finances and your freedom. At Ison Harrison Solicitors, we have extensive experience in defending motoring offences and helping clients achieve the best possible outcome. Whether that means challenging the evidence or negotiating a reduced penalty, we’re here to guide you through every step.

Need Help? Contact Us Today

If you’ve been charged with drink driving, don’t face it alone. Speak to one of our expert solicitors for clear, practical advice and strong representation.

Call Ghaz Iqbal: 0113 200 7413, on our emergency 24-hour arrest helpline: 0113 399 6181 or e-mail: mgi@ih.co.uk