Driving with excess alcohol / drink driving:

This is a very common offence and we have extensive experience in representing clients on both a 'not guilty' and 'guilty' basis.

It is an offence to drive (or attempt to drive) a motor vehicle on a road or other public place with alcohol in your body over the prescribed limit.

The 'limit' depends on the type of sample that is provided:

• If the sample is in breath, the limit is 35 mg alcohol / 100 ml breath.
• If the sample is blood, the limit is 80 mg of alcohol / 100 ml blood.
• If urine, the limit is 107mg alcohol / 100 ml urine.

There are a number of technical aspects to consider when deciding whether to accept or deny an allegation of this kind. We would strongly recommend that you consult our motoring law team before making any firm decisions.

Penalty: The penalty for driving with excess alcohol varies depending on the alcohol reading in question, together with a number of other factors. Disqualification for a minimum period of 12 months is mandatory, unless there are 'special reasons'. For a second offence within a 10-year period, the minimum disqualification will be 36 months.

As well as disqualification from driving, the court will also consider a fine (maximum £5,000.00), community penalty or custodial sentence (imprisonment). The maximum custodial sentence is 6 months.