Do I need a lawyer for a drink driving charge in NSW?
Drink driving is one of the most common offences in NSW, but many people underestimate just how serious it can be. Even a first-time offence can result in a licence disqualification, heavy fines, and a criminal record.
Typical drink driving offences in NSW include low range PCA (0.05 to 0.079), mid range PCA (0.08 to 0.149), and high range PCA (0.15 or higher).
The consequences of drink driving
Depending on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and whether it’s a first or subsequent offence, penalties can include:
- Licence disqualification
- Significant fines
- Interlock device requirements
- In serious cases, possible imprisonment
These penalties can affect your job, your ability to travel, and your personal life.
How a lawyer can help
A lawyer experienced in drink driving matters can:
- Assess whether police procedures were followed correctly (e.g. breath testing rules)
- Advise whether you should plead guilty or not guilty
- Prepare submissions to reduce your penalty (for example, highlighting your good character, employment, and need for a licence)
- Apply for a more lenient outcome, such as a conditional release order without conviction (similar to a Section 10)
Should you represent yourself?
While some people do represent themselves, drink driving law is complex, and magistrates take these offences very seriously. Without a lawyer, you risk missing opportunities to minimise the consequences.
Having the right lawyer by your side can make all the difference in protecting your licence, your record, and your future.
If you’ve been charged with drink driving, get advice before going to court. Call us on 1800 000 566 or book a consultation online by clicking here.
We regularly appear in Wollongong Local Court, Nowra Local Court, Port Kembla Local Court, and across the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and South Coast regions.
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