At EAS Legal, we recently represented a client at the Toronto Local Court who was facing sentence for a first offence of driving with a high range Prescribed Concentration of Alcohol (PCA).
The matter presented several challenges. There was an aggravating feature associated with the offending, our client had a prior record, and the matter was listed before a judicial officer known for taking a firm approach to sentencing.
A significant period without a licence would also have affected our client’s ability to continue working and meet important family responsibilities.
Our Approach
Given the seriousness of a high range PCA offence, our focus was on presenting a comprehensive picture of our client’s circumstances and demonstrating why the minimum period of disqualification was appropriate.
Our team prepared strong subjective material and placed particular emphasis on the positive steps our client had taken following the offending.
Importantly, our client was able to demonstrate genuine restitution and positive steps forward, which formed an important part of our sentencing submissions.
We sought to persuade the Court that, despite the aggravating circumstances and our client’s prior record, a longer period off the road was unnecessary.
The Outcome
The Toronto Local Court accepted our submissions and imposed the minimum six-month licence disqualification, together with a fine and the standard interlock period.
The outcome meant:
For a high range PCA matter involving an aggravating factor and a client with a prior record, securing the minimum disqualification period was an excellent outcome.
Why This Result Matters
High range drink driving is treated seriously by the Courts, but sentencing remains an individual exercise.
This matter demonstrates the value of careful preparation and strong plea advocacy. Presenting quality subjective material and demonstrating the positive steps taken since an offence can significantly assist the Court in understanding why leniency is appropriate.
For our client, achieving the minimum disqualification meant being able to return to driving sooner, continue working and attend to his family’s needs.
Facing a Drink Driving Charge?
EAS Legal represents clients in high range PCA, drink driving and serious traffic matters throughout New South Wales.
1800 117 533
www.easlegal.com.au
EAS Legal – Strategic Traffic & Driving Defence. Proven Results.
