HELP - What should we expect first drink driving offence

[eeyoresbash]

18 yr old boy failed his driving test on Saturday. Had a couple of beers to drown his sorrows but then stupidly took his car for a brief ride (Not yet passed test).
Was caught by Police and tested 91 in 100 on breathaliser.
We're all mortified and don't know what to expect. He may even loose his job as they're moving premises soon and its not on a bus route.
Can you give us an idea of potential sentence/fine so that we can prepare him. Also any suggestions on how we get him through this (and us too)!
Going to see Solicitor on Friday

 

[Forum Moderator]

18 yr old boy failed his driving test on Saturday. Had a couple of beers to drown his sorrows but then stupidly took his car for a brief ride (Not yet passed test).
Was caught by Police and tested 91 in 100 on breathaliser.
We're all mortified and don't know what to expect. He may even loose his job as they're moving premises soon and its not on a bus route.
Can you give us an idea of potential sentence/fine so that we can prepare him. Also any suggestions on how we get him through this (and us too)!
Going to see Solicitor on Friday

Hi,

For a first offence and a breath reading of 91 sentencing guidelines suggest a driving ban/disqualification of between 23 and 28 months and a low to high level community service order. No doubt the drink driving rehabilitation course will be offered which can reduce your sons disqualification by up to 25%.

Magistrates can deviate from these guidelines depending on the mitigating and aggravating factors of the case in question. The fact that your son has not even passed his test can only aggravate matters and go towards increasing any sentence imposed.

You should consider contacting a criminal defence solicitor with expertise in drink driving cases if you have not already done so. They will be able to advise you further and present your case and any mitigation to the courts in order to try and secure a lenient sentence.

The worst part of the whole ordeal is the lead up to and the court case itself and people often live on their nerves and worry endlessly. Once your son has appeared at court and received his sentence, you can then all get on with life without the worry of a court case hanging over you and take steps to put the whole ordeal behind you.

Your son will just have to make the best of a bad situation regarding travel arrangements and getting to and from work.

Good luck, let us know how you get on.