Ottawa DUI Lawyers

A DUI/Impaired Driving charge can have a huge affect on your driving record and insurance rates.

Drivers convicted of a DUI, will have the conviction entered onto driving record and remain there for a considerable amount of time. In Ontario, a criminal driving conviction typically stays on your record for 5 years. Insurance companies have access to your driving record and a DUI conviction is likely to cause your insurance premiums to increase significantly.

Furthermore, some insurance companies might even classify you as a “high-risk” driver, leading to even higher rates or, in some cases, denial of coverage. The exact amount of the increase can vary greatly depending on your specific circumstances, such as your previous driving record, your age, and the specifics of your DUI offence.

Where a driver in a household is convicted of impaired driving, the conviction can affect all the other drivers in the house.  The insurance reasons that where there is a vehicle available for a convicted driver, the driver may drive the vehicle putting the insurance company at risk.

Many times where this happens, a rider may be required stating that the DUI driver must not drive any of the other vehicles, and should they do so, the insurance would not be valid.

Engaging a DUI lawyer can be extremely beneficial in this situation. A skilled DUI lawyer can help navigate the complexities of the law, potentially negotiate reduced charges, and advocate for you in court. Their expertise and knowledge could make a significant difference in the outcome of your case, including the effect on your driving record and insurance rates. Therefore, if you’re facing a DUI/Impaired Driving charge, it’s strongly recommended to consult with a DUI lawyer to explore your options and strategize your defe

A DUI/Impaired Driving conviction can have serious implications on your employment. Depending upon on your line of work and the specific policies of your employer.

For example, if your job involves driving, such as if you are a truck or taxi driver, a DUI/Impaired Driving conviction could result in the loss of your employment.

Licence suspensions for DUI driving include motor vehicle as defined in the Criminal Code of Canada.  A motor vehicle in the criminal code includes anything push pulled or driven by an engine.  As well as motor vehicles this includes any construction vehicles, farm equipment and convicted drivers are even prohibited from driving a lawn tractor or electric scooter.

Additionally, some employers might view a DUI/Impaired Driving conviction as a demonstration of poor judgement or unreliability, which could affect your career progression or even your continued employment.

If you’re professional like real-estate agent, accountant, bank employee or deal in security you probably have a requirement to disclose criminal convictions to your employer, or if your employer conducts regular background checks, a DUI/Impaired Driving conviction could become a significant issue. Moreover, future potential employers who conduct background checks will be able to see this conviction, potentially impacting their hiring decision.

While not all DUI charges can be successfully contested, considering the serious implications of a conviction, most professionals should at least consult with our DUI Lawyers. This free discussion can provide opportunities to explore possible defences, potential victories, and opportunities for reduced charges, ultimately helping to avoid a criminal record.

Yes, it is indeed possible to win a DUI/Impaired Driving case at the Ottawa Courts.

The outcome of any legal case is dependent on a multitude of factors, including:

• the specifics of the charge,
• the evidence presented,
• the credibility of the witnesses, and
• the skills and strategies of your defence team.

It’s important to remember that in any criminal case, the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In simple terms, this means that the prosecution must prove to the judge that the accused is 100% guilty of the allegations.  Where there is ANY doubt in the judges mind they must dismiss the charge. This is a high standard and there may be opportunities to challenge the prosecution’s case and raise that doubt.

For example, there may be issues related to the legality of the traffic stop, the administration and accuracy of the breathalyzer test, or the handling of the evidence. It’s also possible to question the procedures followed by the police during your arrest and the investigation. A successful defence might result in the charges being reduced or even dismissed entirely.

As well our DUI lawyers are many times able to meet with the Crown Attorney and have a DUI charge reduced to a non criminal charge where you do not receive a criminal record or licence suspension.

However, it is crucial to have a knowledgeable and experienced DUI lawyer by your side. Our Ottawa DUI lawyers know the legal landscape and have the experience to spot the weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

They can challenge the evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and present a strong defence on your behalf. While it’s never possible to guarantee a particular outcome, engaging an Ottawa DUI lawyer significantly increases your chances of a favourable result in a DUI/Impaired Driving case.

After being charged with a DUI/Impaired Driving offence, several steps take place in the legal process. While the specifics can vary depending on your situation and local jurisdiction, here’s a general overview of what you can expect:

Arrest and Charge: The process starts when you’re arrested by the police on suspicion of DUI/Impaired Driving.

The police will typically conduct a breathalyzer test or blood test to determine your blood alcohol content (BAC). If your BAC is over the legal limit, you will be arrested and charged with DUI/Impaired Driving.

In most instances you’re taken to the police station where a second breathalyzer test is given.  If the BAC is over 200mgs most drivers will be held in jail until the officer in charge of the police station feels that you’re sober enough to take care of yourself.

Bail and Release: Most drivers will be released on a promise to appear at your first court date. In some cases, where there are extenuating circumstances, you may be held for a bail hearing.

First Court Appearance: The first court date is normally called a “Set Date”.  This is a date for your lawyer and 

Disclosure: Before your first court appearance, the prosecution will provide you with disclosure, which is a copy of the evidence they have against you. This typically includes the police report, breathalyzer results, and possibly video or witness statements.

First Court Appearance: Your first appearance in court is typically administrative in nature. The judge will want to know if you have a lawyer (or need time to get one), and will set future court dates. This is not the trial date.

Plea Negotiations: If there’s a chance that your charges can be reduced or dismissed, your DUI lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor. This step involves analyzing the evidence, identifying any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and exploring potential defences.

Trial: If your case proceeds to trial, your lawyer will present your defence, cross-examine prosecution witnesses, and challenge the evidence against you. The judge (or jury, if applicable) will then decide whether or not you are guilty based on the evidence presented.

Sentencing: If you are found guilty, the court will impose a sentence. This could include fines, licence suspension, mandatory education or treatment programs, probation, or even jail time in severe cases.

It’s important to note that every case is unique, and this process can vary based on many factors. Having a skilled DUI lawyer by your side can help ensure your rights are protected and you’re able to navigate this process as effectively as possible. They can guide you through each step, build a strong defence, and work towards the best possible outcome in your case.