Charged with drink driving in Queensland?
Talk to a lawyer today. We explain the charge, the likely penalty and what happens to your licence, then appear for you in court.
Robert AitkenSpecial Counsel, in practice since 1992
Most people we speak to have never been to court. Here is how it works with us.
Any time, day or night. Tell us the charge and your court date.
We explain the likely penalty, your licence options and whether a work licence may be possible.
We confirm the fee in writing, prepare your submissions and speak for you in court.
What we help with
Driving and licence matters in Magistrates Courts from the Sunshine Coast to the Gold Coast.
Experience that counts
Robert Aitken, Special Counsel at AW Drink Driving Lawyers, has over 30 years of experience in the law. Having appeared in court thousands of times, he is familiar with what Magistrates want to see. Robert oversees every client’s matter, so each one receives a high level of care.
Queensland driving laws are complex and often change. We guide you through the process, tell you what you can do to prepare, and work to get you back on the road as soon as possible.
About our team
Why AW Drink Driving Lawyers
We charge a fixed fee for most court appearances, confirmed in writing. For simple adjournments we can often talk you through appearing without a lawyer.
Before you appear, we tell you the range of penalties available, so you know the likely outcome and can make arrangements.
Before you decide on a plea, we explain every option, including negotiation, case conferencing and justice mediation.
We prepare your matter for court and tell you what you can do, such as references and a driving course, to improve the outcome.
What clients say
“So happy with the outcome and that I can drive to work. There would have been disastrous outcomes if I lost my job without the licence.”
Oliver C
“He was fantastic at explaining all processes and gave me a full understanding of what was going on the whole time. Couldn’t have been a better outcome.”
Nathan R
“Supportive, professional, non-judgemental and empathetic. Would highly recommend them, especially if you are feeling vulnerable and unsure.”
Florence N
Appearing in the court closest to you
We appear in all courts in and around Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast, from the Sunshine Coast to the Gold Coast and west to Ipswich and Toowoomba. The courts know us, and know your matter will be properly prepared.
Frequently asked questions
For most driving matters, you should look to obtain character references (we will give you a reference template), complete a driving course (we will refer you to courses the courts regard highly) and see a drug or alcohol counsellor. More serious offences may need more preparation. Your lawyer will also gather your background information to draft their submissions: the mitigating factors they present to the court for you.
The first court date is called a “first mention”. Many traffic matters can be heard and finalised on this date. If you are unavailable or need more time to prepare, for example to do a driving course, you or your lawyer can ask for an adjournment. There is no penalty for needing more time, and the court will usually grant an adjournment at the first mention.
Send us anything you have received from the police or Queensland Transport. If you have been charged, we will get a copy of the police document that sets out their version of events and your traffic history, and ask you to review them. We will also ask about the offence, your background and your circumstances so we can make submissions on your behalf.
If you plead guilty, you accept responsibility for the offence and your matter is usually resolved more quickly. Your lawyer presents mitigating factors to the court, which can lead to a more lenient sentence. If you contest the charges, you challenge the allegations, which may mean a trial where evidence is presented and witnesses can be cross-examined. Sometimes parts of the charge can be negotiated with Police Prosecutions before you plead. Your lawyer will explain the pros and cons of each approach.
Ask your lawyer to seek an adjournment for you. In most cases the court will grant it. We will tell you before the court date if we see any risks with this.
Office locations and contact details
For urgent help, call us. Our phone line is answered 24/7. Or send us a message and we will be in touch shortly.
Give us a call or send through your details. We are available 24/7
AW Drink Driving Lawyers is a business name of Walker Pender Group Pty Ltd, trading as Aitken Whyte Lawyers. Individual Lawyers’ liability limited by a scheme approved under professional standards legislation.
