A drink driving conviction in Queensland carries a mandatory minimum driver licence disqualification, substantial fines, and immediately results in a criminal traffic record. High-range offences can even lead to terms of imprisonment and mandatory interlock conditions.
At Bell & Senior Lawyers, we understand the devastating impact a disqualification can have on your life. We provide strategic, non-judgmental representation for all forms of Prescribed Concentration of Alcohol (PCA) charges in the Magistrates Court.
Understanding the PCA Ranges
Penalties in Queensland are strictly tiered based on your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC):
- Low Range (0.05 to 0.099): Generally handled via infringement or a summons. Disqualification usually ranges from 1 to 9 months for a first offence.
- Mid Range (0.10 to 0.149): Mandatory minimum disqualification of 3 months, maximum of 12 months. Fines escalate significantly.
- High Range (0.15 and over) or UIL: Deemed “Driving Under the Influence.” Requires an immediate licence suspension until your court date. Minimum 6 months disqualification, plus mandatory installation of an alcohol ignition interlock device upon relicensing.
Our Approach to Your Defence
When you engage Bell & Senior Lawyers, we will:
- Assess Your Eligibility for a Work Licence: If you face a low or mid-range charge, and losing your licence means losing your job, we will urgently prepare your application for a Section 87 Restricted Work Licence .
- Scrutinise the Police Evidence: Did the police administer the breath analysis within the lawful strict time limit? Was the breathalyser correctly calibrated? Were you actually “in charge” of the vehicle?
- Prepare Comprehensive Mitigation: We compile character references, traffic history analysis, and guide you through completing a traffic offender program. This extensive preparation is critical for securing the absolute minimum disqualification period permitted by law from the Magistrate.
Do not walk into the Magistrates Court alone to face a police prosecutor. Contact us today to organise an immediate case evaluation.