Question 1

What happens if I am charged with impaired driving in Canada?

Accepted Answer

If you are charged, police may suspend your licence and seize your vehicle. You will get a court date. You can plead guilty or not guilty. If you plead not guilty, your case goes to trial. Penalties can include fines, prohibitions from driving, and even jail, depending on the circumstances and any prior offences.

Question 2

How much does it cost to hire an impaired driving lawyer in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Fees vary based on the lawyer's experience, location, and the complexity of your case. Some lawyers offer flat rates, while others charge hourly. Expect a few thousand dollars in most cases. Always ask for an estimate and understand what is included before hiring any lawyer.

Question 3

Are impaired driving laws different across Canadian provinces?

Accepted Answer

Yes. While the Criminal Code sets out general offences and penalties, provinces and territories add their own penalties like licence suspensions and administrative charges. The minimum penalties are similar, but the specific rules and processes differ. Check the details for your province or territory.

Question 4

Can I drive after being charged with impaired driving?

Accepted Answer

Usually, your licence is suspended right away, either by police or the province. Some provinces offer an appeal process or temporary permits for work reasons. Many people cannot drive until the case is over or until reinstatement conditions are met. Check your province's rules.

Question 5

How long does an impaired driving case take in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Most cases take several months from the first court appearance to resolution. If the case goes to trial, it can take longer. Delays can happen if witnesses need to be called or evidence is being reviewed. Your lawyer can give you an estimate based on your local court schedules.

Question 6

What should I bring to my first meeting with an impaired driving lawyer?

Accepted Answer

Bring all documents related to your charge, such as your release papers, police documents, any court notices, and your driver’s licence if available. Write down what happened and your questions for the lawyer. This helps the lawyer understand your situation and recommend next steps.

Question 7

What are possible defences for impaired driving in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Common defences include challenging how the breath or blood sample was taken, arguing police did not have a good reason to stop you, or that your rights under the Charter were breached. The best defence depends on the facts of your case. A lawyer reviews the details to advise you.

Question 8

How do I choose the right impaired driving lawyer?

Accepted Answer

Look for a lawyer with experience in impaired driving cases in your province. Ask about their approach, how often they handle similar cases, and their fees. Check reviews or ask for references. Make sure you feel comfortable with how they communicate and explain things.

Question 9

What are the penalties for a first-time impaired driving charge?

Accepted Answer

Penalties for a first offence can include a fine (usually at least $1,000), a minimum one-year driving prohibition, and a criminal record. Some provinces add automatic suspensions and fees. Jail is uncommon for first offences unless there are aggravating factors like injury or high readings.

Question 10

Can an impaired driving charge be dropped or reduced in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Crown prosecutors may agree to drop or reduce a charge in certain cases, such as problems with the police evidence or when the Charter was breached. Sometimes, resolution discussions can lead to a non-criminal outcome. Your lawyer can discuss the options after reviewing the facts of your case.

Impaired Driving Lawyers in Nova Scotia

Impaired Driving Lawyers listed in Nova Scotia

No impaired driving lawyers listed in Nova Scotia yet

Impaired Driving Lawyers by city in Nova Scotia

Frequently asked questions

Impaired Driving Lawyers listed in Nova Scotia

No impaired driving lawyers listed in Nova Scotia yet

Impaired Driving Lawyers by city in Nova Scotia

Frequently asked questions

01What happens if I am charged with impaired driving in Canada?

02How much does it cost to hire an impaired driving lawyer in Canada?

03Are impaired driving laws different across Canadian provinces?

04Can I drive after being charged with impaired driving?

05How long does an impaired driving case take in Canada?

06What should I bring to my first meeting with an impaired driving lawyer?

07What are possible defences for impaired driving in Canada?

08How do I choose the right impaired driving lawyer?

09What are the penalties for a first-time impaired driving charge?

10Can an impaired driving charge be dropped or reduced in Canada?