If you have been charged with driving while impaired Section 253 (a) of the Criminal Code or Section 253 (b) blood alcohol over .08 or Section 254 refusal to provide a sample, you need to find out if you have a defence.
You should never plead guilty to a charge before you speak with a criminal lawyer who specializes in impaired defences.
A conviction will have overwhelming consequences since it will give you a criminal record, a loss of your driving privileges, perhaps loss of your income or even your freedom and 200% insurance increase based on the new Government Rating Plan.
This is far too serious a situation to deal with by yourself or based on information your friends have given you. One of the most common mistakes a person charged with impaired driving is to try to ascertain the outcome based on what you have heard others tell you from their own experience. Every impaired driving case is unique and the situations are never identical therefore the outcome in trial will vary depending upon your own facts and your own legal issues involved in the charge against you.
You need professional advice before you make any decision that could alter your life so significantly!
What can a lawyer who specializes in impaired charges do for you?
- First they will obtain disclosure which is all the information that the police have regarding your charge(s).
- Secondly the information will be scrutinized for any errors and charter rights which may have been neglected.
- Experts witnesses will be retained if beneficial to your case.
- They can negotiate with the Crown Prosecutor for a lesser offense or reduced sentence or the exclusion of evidence that may damage your case.
- Lastly if the matter does go to trial they can argue your case and present the most effective defence possible.
Were you charged with impaired driving or drinking and driving anywhere in Calgary, Edmonton, Fort McMurray or rural Alberta?