Drink Driving

This video covers the basics of drink driving, refusing blood and related charges. There are also options for a limited licence or work licence.

Understanding Drink Driving Charges in New Zealand Law

Drink driving is one of the most common charges in New Zealand, and it's taken very seriously by the courts. If you're facing a drink driving charge, it's crucial to understand the potential outcomes and options available to you, including the possibility of saving your license.

Common Drink Driving Charges

The most common drink driving charges include driving with excess breath alcohol, blood alcohol, or failing to give a blood sample. There are also more serious but rare charges such as driving in the transport industry with excess blood alcohol, which applies to taxi drivers and others in similar roles.

Potential Outcomes

The courts typically deal with first-time offenders by imposing a mandatory six-month disqualification and a fine. For second-time offenders, the penalties usually include community work and disqualification.

If you're facing a third charge, the situation becomes more serious. The minimum disqualification period increases to a year and a day, which means you have to reset your license. At this point, you could also be facing community detention, home detention, or even prison.

Saving Your License

Despite the term "mandatory disqualification," there are ways to potentially save your license. If you're facing a drink driving charge, it's worth exploring these options with a legal expert.

Vehicle Confiscation

If you've had a previous drink driving or other serious traffic charge within five years, you could also be facing the confiscation of your vehicle. This makes it even more important to seek legal advice as soon as possible.

Reach Out for Help

If you're facing a drink driving charge and are concerned about your license or the potential outcomes, don't hesitate to get in touch with me. You can Phone me on 021488367 or 0800 BUSTED (0800287833) or you can email me. I can provide more information about your options and help you navigate this process.