Should you hire a lawyer for a DUI charge?

Those charged with DUI type offences will often ask whether they need a lawyer or not. There are three main benefits to hiring a lawyer to defend a DUI case:

1. Some provinces have programs that allow the accused to drive earlier with a alcohol screening device installed on their car, but these programs are time limited. A lawyer can help persuade the Crown Attorney to agree to this option for you.


2. Lawyers can often persuade the Crown to agree to a lesser non criminal charge. This can be tremendously beneficial to the accused because it allows them to avoid a criminal record. They are also often able to reach agreements to allow the accused to drive earlier. Getting the Crown to agree to drop a DUI charge is often not simple. It normally requires the presentation of evidence that if the charge went to trial there was a reasonable prospect that evidence could be excluded because of a technical or constitutional reason.


3. In order to properly defend a DUI case in court (and win), you often need to present highly technical and case specific arguments. Legal research and expert opinion is often part of hte defence. DUIs are not like other common charges (assaults, threats, etc.) where the case hinges on the credibility of witnesses. DUI cases are all about the Charter, interpretation and application of case law, scientific evidence, and other highly technical aspects. These cases are decided by a judge with an expert understanding of the law (and not a jury).

The consequences of a DUI conviction are severe (even a first time conviction). There is very little judicial discretion in these cases and you will get a criminal record if convicted that will show up on employment and travel background checks.

Having a DUI record and hurt you a lot because employers will see you as someone who has a problem with alcohol and following rules. Some people view DUI offenders as particularly careless individuals because of the perception that they are putting the lives of innocent people at risk.

If the person charged is not a Canadian citizen they may have their immigration status taken away, be deported, and banned from returning to Canada because impaired driving offences are now classified as serious offences by IRCC. Please see our page on immigrant impaired driving charges for more information.

In short, the punishments (both direct and indirect) of a drunk driving conviction are extremely serious and it is therefore in your best interest to retain a lawyer in these types of matters.

Call us today.
You don't have to jeopardize your future or waste thousands of dollars on excessive legal fees. We provide effective and affordable lawyer representation for those charged with impaired driving offences throughout Ontario.

Have a skilled criminal lawyer who focuses on impaired driving related charges protect you and your future from the stigma and consequences of a criminal record.





Are you a lawyer? If you are defending an impaired driving related case and are looking for expert advice regarding possible defences, case strategies, and information release management call us at: 647-228-5969.

Please note: We do not accept legal aid certificate cases. All clients are handled on a private retainer only.

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