Impaired Driving Lawyer In Surrey BC Canada
Charged with Impaired Driving in Surrey?
What Is Impaired Driving in Canada?
Impaired driving is the operation of a motor vehicle while a person's ability to drive is impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. It remains one of the most serious criminal driving offences in Canada and may result in significant legal, financial, and personal consequences.
Depending on the circumstances, an impaired driving investigation may lead to criminal charges, an Immediate Roadside Prohibition (IRP), driver's licence suspension, vehicle impoundment, substantial fines, or a criminal record. More serious cases, particularly those involving bodily harm or death, can result in lengthy terms of imprisonment.
If you have been arrested or are under investigation for impaired driving, obtaining legal advice as early as possible can help you understand your rights and the legal process.
Impaired Driving Offences Under the Criminal Code :
Impaired driving offences are governed by section 320.14 of the Criminal Code of Canada. The legislation creates several impaired driving offences, including allegations involving:
Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol
Operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs
Operating a vehicle while impaired by a combination of alcohol and drugs
Having a prohibited blood alcohol concentration within two hours of driving ("Over 80")
Having a prohibited blood drug concentration within two hours of driving
Having both prohibited alcohol and drug concentrations within two hours of driving
Each offence involves different legal requirements, and the prosecution must prove the essential elements of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt.
If you have been charged with impaired driving in Surrey or elsewhere in British Columbia, obtaining legal advice promptly is important. Paul E. Briggs Law provides experienced criminal defence representation for clients facing impaired driving allegations, including Over 80 charges, drug-impaired driving offences, Immediate Roadside Prohibitions (IRPs), and refusal or failure to comply with lawful demands.
Contact our Surrey criminal defence lawyer to arrange a confidential consultation and discuss your legal options.
Speak With an Impaired Driving Lawyer in Surrey
An impaired driving allegation can have immediate and lasting consequences. Depending on the circumstances, you may face a criminal charge, an Immediate Roadside Prohibition (IRP), an Over 80 allegation, or a drug-impaired driving investigation. A conviction or other legal consequences may also affect your employment, professional licensing, insurance, ability to travel internationally, and, for some individuals, immigration status or future immigration applications.
Paul E. Briggs Law is committed to providing strategic, practical, and confidential criminal defence representation tailored to the unique circumstances of each case. We carefully review the evidence, explain your legal options, and work to protect your rights at every stage of the proceedings.
If you have been charged with impaired driving in Surrey or elsewhere in British Columbia, contact our office to arrange a confidential consultation with an experienced criminal defence lawyer. Early legal advice can help you understand the allegations, preserve important evidence, and make informed decisions about your case.