Drink Driving Lawyer Ferntree Gully
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Some first drink driving offences are dealt with by an infringement notice instead of a court summons. That can look like the easy option, and sometimes it is. Before you accept it, it helps to know what you are agreeing to and what going to court instead would mean.

What accepting the notice means

If you accept a drink driving infringement notice, you pay the fine and your licence is cancelled without a court hearing. The cancellation starts once the 28 day period to object has passed. If you are 26 or over, held a full licence and your reading was 0.05 to under 0.07, the minimum loss is three months. Otherwise the same minimums as in court apply.

What objecting means

You have 28 days to object and have the matter heard by a magistrate instead. Going to court gives you the chance to challenge the evidence or put your circumstances to the court, which can matter for whether a conviction is recorded. It also means the court decides the penalty, within the same minimum licence loss.

How we help you decide

  • We check the reading, the timing and how the test was done.
  • We tell you what a court is likely to do in your situation.
  • We explain the licence loss either way, so there are no surprises.

Where your case would be heard

If you object, the matter is listed at the Magistrates’ Court for the area where the offence happened, which we confirm from your paperwork. Ferntree Gully (3156) is in the City of Knox, a short drive from our Nunawading office.

Common questions

Is paying the infringement the same as pleading guilty?

In practical terms it ends the matter without a hearing and your licence is cancelled. Talk to us before you pay if you are unsure about the reading or the circumstances.

How long do I have to decide?

28 days from the notice. Once that passes without an objection, the cancellation takes effect.

Can I get a work licence instead?

No. Victoria does not have work licences for drink driving, whichever path you take.

Your next steps

  • Check the date on the notice and work out your 28 day deadline.
  • Do not drive once the cancellation starts.
  • Get advice before you pay or object.

99% of our work is traffic law and our fees are fixed, with no hidden costs. Read more in First time drink driving offence: what really happens or on our drink driving page.

If you are worried about losing your licence or unsure what to expect at court, getting advice early can help you understand where you stand. Get a free case assessment.

Drink Driving Lawyer Ferntree Gully
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    Level 40, 140 William Street, Melbourne
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    Call us toll free on 1800 351 114 to speak with a lawyer.

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    Text us at 0412 100 780 with your first name, case type, and preferred call time (e.g. ‘Joe, drink driving, after 5pm’). We’ll arrange a barrister to call you back.

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    Email your charge, summons, and contact details to info@williamarcher.com.au, along with your preferred call time.

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