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5600+ Traffic Law Cases Defended Successfully
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99% of Our Work is Traffic Law
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A drink driving stop can quickly turn into several charges. Giving police a false name, driving while disqualified or a careless driving charge can sit alongside the drink driving charge. The way to approach it is to look at each charge separately and work out which ones should be fought, negotiated or pleaded to.
How extra charges change the case
Each charge carries its own penalty, and some, like giving a false name or address to police, are taken seriously because they go to honesty. But charges can often be negotiated. Police sometimes withdraw one charge when others are resolved, and that can make a real difference to the result.
A result from one of our files: Melbourne Magistrates’ Court
Police stopped our client late at night. He handed over his brother’s licence and gave his brother’s name, but the photo did not match. His own licence was disqualified, and his reading of 0.023 was over the zero limit that applied to him. He also had two earlier drink driving offences. We advised him to plead guilty to three of the four charges and the fourth was withdrawn. His licence was cancelled for the mandatory minimum of 12 months and he was fined $600 without conviction, avoiding a Community Corrections Order. Every case is different and past results do not guarantee an outcome. Read the case study.
The drink driving part
If you are found guilty of drink driving, the court must cancel your licence for at least a minimum period based on your reading and any earlier offence in the last ten years. Drivers without a full licence, including anyone disqualified, have a zero limit.
Where your case is heard
Your case is heard at the Magistrates’ Court for the area where police charged you, which we confirm from your paperwork. For drivers from Clayton (3168) and the City of Monash, we can meet at our Nunawading office or start with a phone call.
What people ask us
Should I plead guilty to everything?
Not until the charges have been looked at one by one. Pleading to some and having others withdrawn is common.
How serious is giving a false name to police?
It is a separate offence that magistrates take seriously. Dealing with it honestly in your plea usually works better than leaving it unexplained.
Will I get a conviction?
Not necessarily, even with several charges. It depends on your history and how the case is presented.
Your next steps
- Bring every charge sheet you received, not just the drink driving one.
- Do not contact police to change your story. Talk to a lawyer first.
- Get advice early, before any plea is entered.
99% of our work is traffic law and our fees are fixed, with no hidden costs. Read more on our drink driving page or in Is it worth fighting a drink driving charge?.
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.
We’re Here to Help
Visit us, call for a free consultation, or fill out the form to get in touch.
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Address7/197 Springvale Road, Nunawading
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AddressLevel 40, 140 William Street, Melbourne
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Telephone
Call us toll free on 1800 351 114 to speak with a lawyer.
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SMS
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
Email your charge, summons, and contact details to info@williamarcher.com.au, along with your preferred call time.
Contact Us for Expert Advice
Our Expert Traffic Law Services
How it works
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Contact Us for a free Case Assessment
Call us or submit the form to discuss your case with a traffic law expert.
STEP 01 -
Get Tailored Legal Advice
We’ll review your case and provide clear, practical advice on your best legal options.
STEP 02 -
Strong Representation in Court (If Needed)
If required, we’ll prepare thoroughly and represent you to achieve the best possible outcome.
STEP 03 -
Get the Best Outcome
We'll fight hard to minimise penalties, protect your licence, get your charges dropped whenever possible, and avoid a conviction.
STEP 04
Real Results, Real Stories
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Failure to Provide a Name and Address – Melbourne Magistrates’ Court
The Court: Melbourne Magistrates’ Court The Date: June 2026 The Charges: Road Safety Act 1986 s.61(1)(c) – Failing to provide a name and address Possible penalties our client was facing: A fine of up to 5 penalty units ($1,045.50), or imprisonment of a maximum 14 days. The facts of the case: Our client was charged […]
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Careless Driving and Failure to Give Way – Melbourne Magistrates’ Court
The Court: Melbourne Magistrates’ Court The Date: June 2026 The Charges: Road Safety Act 1986 s.65 – Careless Driving Road Safety Road Rules 2017 r.75(1)(c) – Failure to give way to oncoming traffic when turning right. Possible penalties our client was facing: A fine of up to 12 penalty units ($2,442.12) or imprisonment for up […]
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Driving while suspended and driving an unregistered car – Melbourne Magistrates’ Court
Drive Suspended and Driving an Unregistered Vehicle – Melbourne Magistrates’ Court The Court: Melbourne Magistrates’ Court The Date: May 2026 The Charges: Road Safety Act 30 (1) – Drive Suspended Road Safety Act 7(1)(a) – Driving an Unregistered Vehicle Possible penalties our client was facing: Charge 1: Imprisonment of up to 2 years Fine of […]
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Multiple Charges (5)- 2026 – Portland Magistrates’ Court
Multiple Charges (5) drink drive, theft, careless drive and failing to wear a helmet The Court: Portland Magistrates’ Court The date : 2026 The Charges: Road Safety Act, Section 49(1)(b) – drive a motor vehicle while more than the prescribed concentration of alcohol was present in his blood (Alleged reading 0.233) Road Safety Act, Section […]
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Dangerous Driving, speeding – Broadmeadows’ Magistrates’ Court
Dangerous driving, speeding – 2026 – Broadmeadows’ Magistrates’ Court The Court: Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court The Date: December 2025 The Charges: Road Safety Act 1986 (Vic) s 64(1) – Dangerous driving Road Safety Road Rules 2017 (Vic) s 20 (1) – Speeding Possible penalties our client was facing: Charge 1: Fine of up to $48,842.40 Up […]
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What Our Clients Are Saying
“Amalia from William Archer was really helpful and accommodating. She assisted me in every way she could do to enlighten me with my case. She is willing to help me more beyond expectation. Amalia is a gem!”
“They were great, The lawyer I had was straight forward, kind and clear and if you wasn’t sure about something they would explain it with better detail, I would recommend them”
“Happy to answer multiple Qs , didn’t rush me off the phone , happy to spend time and elaborate even though mine was a small case compared to most.
No sugar coating , very honest , no bs.
Thankyou to Ameia !
Kind regards
Brok…..”
"Dear Amalia, I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to sincerely thank you for your invaluable advice and guidance regarding the infringement notice I received. Your insights were clear, practical, and provided me with much-needed reassurance during a stressful time. Your expertise and thoughtful... Read More
"This review is for Amalia Vicze - one of the best experiences Ive had when it has come to dealing with lawyers. Not only was she comforting, but brief, efficient and clearly great at her job. Despite the stress any individual may face when going to any lawyer, Amalia provided... Read More
"I had the pleasure of working with Luke, and I can't recommend him highly enough! Not only did he help me save my driver’s license, but he also made the entire experience much less stressful. Luke is incredibly down to earth and has a way of making you feel relaxed,... Read More
"What can I say, from Amalia to Luke, William ARCHER Lawyers were exceptional. Luke helped me every step of the way, explaining to me through every step and reassuring me as I was a nervy wreck with this being my first ever time in court. I was expecting a hefty... Read More
“I was fortunate to have Luke Simpson look after my case. Luke was a true professional to work with. Luke explained the process clearly, leading up to the case and also on the day. Great outcome, i highly recommend Luke’s services in this area.”
“Attorney Luke is very patient, polite, and able to provide the most professional legal advice and help in a timely manner. Many thanks to Luke and his team, highly recommended!”
“They gave me some valuable information free of cost and told me other lawyers would probably take you to court and lose and even charge you money that bit of information was given to me of cost”
Our Latest Articles
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The Demerit Point Misconception: Can Going to Court Save Your Points?
One of the most common misconceptions among Victorian motorists is that electing to have a traffic infringement heard in court may allow them to avoid demerit points. Many drivers believe that a Magistrate has the discretion to impose a fine without recording demerit points, particularly where the offence is minor or the driver has an […]
Oct 28, 2026
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Should I elect to have my Traffic Infringement Notice heard in Court?
Receiving a Traffic Infringement Notice can be frustrating, particularly where the alleged offence carries a substantial fine, demerit points or the possibility of losing your driver’s licence. In Victoria, motorists generally have the right to elect to have an eligible infringement matter heard and determined by the Magistrates’ Court. However, before making that decision, it […]
Oct 28, 2026
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Repeat Drink Driving Offence – Is There Any Hope in Court?
If you’ve been caught drink driving again, it can feel like the ground has dropped out from under you. Most people at this point aren’t asking about fines. They’re thinking: “It’s over.”“They won’t go easy on me this time.”“I’m going to jail.” That sense of hopelessness is common. And it’s understandable. But here’s the truth, based […]
Aug 10, 2026
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Should I Represent Myself in Court?
At the outset, the reader may find it ironic to find this article published on a Law Firms website that charges for professional services. However, what follows is, so to speak, the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth when it comes to the decision to represent yourself in court. It doesn’t matter […]
May 11, 2026
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First Time Drink Driving Charge in Victoria – What You Need to Know
If you’ve been caught drink driving in Victoria for the first time, you’re probably feeling rattled. Most people in this position are thinking the same things: “Am I going to court?”“Do I lose my licence straight away?”“Will this ruin my job or future?” That reaction is normal. A first time drink driving charge in Victoria is serious. But it […]
May 08, 2026
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How to Get Your Licence Back After Being Caught and Disqualified in Victoria
You cannot just start driving when your disqualification period ends. Once a court cancels your licence, it is completely void. You must officially apply to VicRoads to get a new licence. Depending on your offence, you might also have to go back to the Magistrates’ Court first to get a “licence eligibility order”. Over 90% […]
Apr 15, 2026
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What Happens After a DUI Charge in Victoria – Step-by-Step Timeline
If you’ve just been charged with a DUI or drink driving offence in Victoria, the waiting is often the worst part. Most people leave the police stop or station thinking: “What happens now?”“Have I already lost my licence?”“When do I go to court?”“What am I meant to do before then?” This page walks through what usually happens […]
Apr 14, 2026
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The Dangers of AI and The Law
Since the introduction of AI Large Language Models (LLMs) in the early 2020s, people have increasingly relied on AI platforms such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini to assist with day-to-day tasks, from drafting emails to summarising complex information. By 2026, it is widely understood that while these tools are powerful, they are not infallible. One […]
Apr 10, 2026
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Vehicle Impoundment, Immobilisation & Forfeiture in Victoria – Know Your Rights
Had your car impounded, immobilised, or facing forfeiture in Victoria? Learn how hoon laws work, when police can seize your vehicle, how to appeal, and when to get legal help. Practical guide from William Archer Defence Lawyers.
Mar 31, 2026
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Failure to Nominate the Driver of a Motor Vehicle – s60 Road Safety Act
If you’ve been contacted by police and asked, “Who was driving your car?”, you might be thinking you can just say “no comment” and move on. A lot of people think that. This charge exists because, under Victorian law, the registered owner (or the person responsible for the vehicle) can be required to help identify […]
Mar 30, 2026
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