DUI/DWI
Top Drink & Drug Driving Attorneys in England
Skilled Motoring Defence Lawyers
At Anderson & Cole Solicitors, we place special emphasis on defending clients accused of drink driving, drug driving, and refusal to provide a specimen across England and Wales. With so much at stake — your driving licence, employment, criminal record, and even your freedom — we provide strategic, professional, and discreet representation at every stage.
Our experienced defence solicitors combine strong advocacy in court with practical legal strategies tailored to your individual circumstances. We ensure you are fully informed throughout your case, offering clear communication, prompt updates, and unwavering support.
If you’re facing allegations of drink or drug driving, there is always hope. Contact us today for expert legal advice and to begin protecting your future.
Why Choose Anderson & Cole for Drink & Drug Driving Defence?
We understand that the UK has some of the strictest motoring laws in the world. Convictions can lead to automatic driving bans, fines, increased insurance premiums, and even imprisonment. The consequences are even more severe if the case involves a high alcohol reading, refusal to provide a specimen, or repeat offences.
Our Approach:
Local Expertise: We know the magistrates’ courts and Crown Courts across England, as well as how to navigate them effectively.
Strategic Defence: We create a tailored legal strategy from day one based on the evidence and your objectives.
Personal Service: Direct access to your solicitor, timely communication, and support when you need it most.
Understanding Drink & Drug Driving Laws in England
Drink Driving
Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, it is an offence to drive (or attempt to drive) with excess alcohol in your breath, blood, or urine.
The legal limits are:
Breath: 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath
Blood: 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood
Urine: 107mg of alcohol per 100ml of urine
Drug Driving
It is also an offence to drive with certain controlled drugs above the prescribed limits, or while unfit to drive due to drug use (whether illegal or prescription drugs).
Refusal to Provide a Specimen
Failing or refusing to provide a specimen of breath, blood, or urine without reasonable excuse is treated as a serious criminal offence, often resulting in harsher penalties than the original drink driving charge.
Penalties for Drink & Drug Driving in England
First Offence
| Penalty | Details |
|---|---|
| Driving Ban | Minimum 12 months (3 years if second offence within 10 years) |
| Fine | Unlimited, means-tested |
| Imprisonment | Up to 6 months |
| Criminal Record | Permanent entry impacting employment, travel, and insurance |
Refusal to Provide a Specimen
| Penalty | Details |
|---|---|
| Driving Ban | Minimum 12 months (often longer) |
| Fine | Unlimited |
| Imprisonment | Up to 6 months |
| Impact | Often viewed by courts as more serious than drink driving itself |
Aggravating Factors
Courts may impose harsher penalties where:
Alcohol reading is especially high
Drugs were combined with alcohol
An accident occurred
Passengers were put at risk (especially children)
The driver was a professional driver
Special Cases
New & Young Drivers
Drivers with less than two years’ experience face revocation of their licence if they accumulate just 6 points, meaning even a short ban could lead to a full re-test.
Professional Drivers
Drink or drug driving convictions can threaten livelihoods and professional licences for taxi drivers, lorry drivers, and those in regulated industries.
Medical & Prescription Drugs
Even legally prescribed medication can lead to a charge if it impairs your ability to drive. We carefully review medical evidence and raise strong defences where appropriate.
Our Experience
We have successfully defended clients facing:
First-time drink driving charges
High breathalyser readings
Drug driving and prescription drug cases
Refusal to provide a specimen
Serious motoring offences combined with criminal allegations
Our goal is always to minimise the impact on your life, career, and future.
Don’t Face a Drink or Drug Driving Charge Alone — Contact Us Today
If you’ve been accused of drink driving, drug driving, or refusing to provide a specimen, Anderson & Cole Solicitors are here to protect your rights and future.
Frequently Asked Questions
35 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath (lower than in many countries).
Not without reasonable excuse (such as a genuine medical condition). Refusal is treated very seriously.
A drink driving offence stays on your driving record for 11 years.
In certain cases, “special reasons” (such as emergencies) can be argued to avoid disqualification, though these are rare and must be carefully presented.
Don’t Face a Drink or Drug Driving Charge Alone Contact Us Today
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