Drink Driving Lawyers Canberra ACT

General information only — not legal advice. Penalties and section numbers change; speak with us about your specific circumstances. Call (02) 6210 1075.

How Andrew Byrnes Law Group Acts in Drink Driving Matters

Drink driving consequences in the ACT — automatic disqualification, alcohol interlock orders, and recorded convictions — affect employment, insurance, and travel. Andrew Byrnes Law Group provides:

• Detailed review of the breath analysis procedure, calibration records, and roadside testing
• Sentencing advocacy targeting section 17 non-conviction outcomes for first-offence low-range matters
• Plea preparation including character references, traffic record, and employment impact statements
• Negotiations with police prosecutors on charge alternatives where appropriate
• Advice on the Alcohol Interlock Program and conditions for licence reinstatement
• Representation in appeal proceedings against immediate licence suspensions
• Coordination with concurrent drug driving or dangerous driving charges

Serving Canberra and Surrounding Regions

Andrew Byrnes Law Group defends drink driving charges across Canberra, the ACT, and surrounding NSW regions. Call (02) 6210 1075 before your first court date.

Important — not legal advice

This page provides general information about ACT criminal law. It is not legal advice and must not be relied on as such. Laws, penalties, and section numbers change, and how the law applies depends on your specific circumstances. For advice tailored to your situation, contact Andrew Byrnes Law Group on (02) 6210 1075 or via our contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the BAC limits for drink driving in the ACT?

Under the Road Transport (Alcohol and Drugs) Act 1977 (ACT), the general limit for most drivers is 0.05% blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Learner and provisional licence holders, heavy vehicle operators, and public passenger vehicle drivers must maintain a zero BAC. Exceeding the prescribed concentration is a 'prescribed concentration of alcohol' (PCA) offence, and the penalty category increases with how far over the limit you are recorded.

Will I lose my licence if I am convicted of drink driving in the ACT?

A conviction for a PCA offence results in a mandatory licence disqualification under the Road Transport (Alcohol and Drugs) Act 1977 (ACT). For a first offence at the low range (0.05–0.079% BAC), the minimum disqualification period is six months. Higher-range and repeat offences attract longer disqualification periods, and many drivers also face an immediate roadside licence suspension before their court date. The length of disqualification is an important factor that can be addressed through careful sentencing submissions.

Can the accuracy of a breath test be challenged in the ACT?

Yes. The procedures governing breath analysis under the Road Transport (Alcohol and Drugs) Act 1977 (ACT) must be strictly followed, and results are not infallible. Potential grounds for challenge include equipment calibration issues, failure to observe the required 15-minute pre-test window, medical conditions that can affect readings, or procedural errors by the testing officer. Whether a challenge is viable depends on the specific facts of your case — contact Andrew Byrnes Law Group for a free initial consultation.

What is the Alcohol Interlock Program and will it apply after my disqualification ends?

The Alcohol Interlock Program requires eligible drink driving offenders to install a device that prevents a vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on the driver's breath, for a mandatory period after disqualification ends. The program is mandatory for high-range PCA offences and most repeat offences. An unrestricted licence cannot be restored until the interlock period is successfully completed. A lawyer can explain how the program applies to your circumstances and what is required to have the interlock removed.

How could a drink driving charge affect my employment or a professional licence I hold?

A drink driving conviction can have serious consequences for employment that depends on holding a licence — including commercial vehicle drivers, couriers, ride-share operators, and certain healthcare, aviation, or security professionals. Courts can take employment impact into account at sentencing when supported by appropriate evidence. A lawyer can assist in preparing this material as part of your overall sentencing strategy. Contact Andrew Byrnes Law Group for a free initial consultation.