Drinking and driving remain as one of the top public health concerns in Toronto despite warnings and campaigns by the law and media against driving while intoxicated. A recent survey ranks Canada as number 1 in alcohol-impairment roadway deaths amongst 19 wealthy countries, which is why a DUI charge is met with severe punishments and other life-long consequences.
DUI is A Criminal Offence In Canada
Some people still think that a DUI charge is a minor offence needing only a fine and license suspension to fix. That is far from reality. DUI is a criminal offence in Canada and can result in years of imprisonment as well as a criminal record.
DUI Charges Can Affect Your Livelihood
Because a DUI conviction is marked as a criminal record, it affects one’s ability to get certain jobs and avail of loans for a business venture. It is widely believed that employers do not want to hire someone who is a convicted criminal and nobody wants to conduct business with an ex-con.
Drunk Driving Charges Can Be Dropped
An experienced drinking and driving lawyer can come up with a defence that can result in getting DUI charges dropped. Your DUI lawyer should be able to identify and point out flaws in the Crown’s case against you to make this possible.
A DUI Conviction Means No Driving for a Year
Even just a charge can result in license suspension as well as hefty fines, especially for repeat offenders. A second offence means 3 years of license suspension, fines, and jail time. A third offence means lifetime license suspension and more jail time, fines, and other penalties.
Not Pleading Guilty is Your First Defence for A DUI Charge
Once you’ve pleaded guilty for a DUI, there is no going back even if you are innocent. It is important to remain calm, hire a DUI lawyer, and stick to facts if you want a fair trial. If you’re looking for a DUI lawyer in Toronto, contact Calvin Barry.