A professional driver was charged with mid-range PCA, placing their employment at serious risk due to licence loss and interlock requirements. We gathered employer evidence confirming fleet-based vehicle use and the impracticality of installing interlock devices across multiple trucks. Additional material included work rosters, fatigue management steps, counselling engagement, and a structured safe-driving plan. Submissions emphasised the disproportionate employment impact and low risk of reoffending. The court imposed a Conditional Release Order without conviction, avoiding interlock and preserving the client’s livelihood. Ongoing compliance steps were documented to reinforce rehabilitation and public safety.

The client was charged with low-range PCA after drinking at a social event. We arranged completion of the Traffic Offender Program, counselling confirmation and detailed character references. Submissions focused on early plea, insight and a low risk of reoffending. The court imposed a Conditional Release Order (CRO) without conviction, avoiding a criminal record and limiting licence consequences.

The client was charged with mid-range drink driving after recording a reading of 0.134 following a Christmas work function. Police stopped the client after a traffic light offence, and breath analysis confirmed the reading. We advised immediate enrolment in a Traffic Offenders Program, obtained strong character references, and prepared a detailed apology showing insight and responsibility. Submissions focused on early plea, lack of prior offences, and genuine steps taken to prevent reoffending. The court imposed a Conditional Release Order without conviction, allowing the client to keep their licence and employment. We also provided post-court compliance guidance to ensure no breach risk during the order period.

Costs depend on the charge, preparation needs, and whether the case resolves by plea or proceeds to a defended hearing. Many guilty pleas and standard Local Court stages can be handled on fixed fees. Defended hearings and appeals are usually priced in stages tied to milestones, such as reviewing the police brief, negotiations, preparing a sentencing bundle, and appearing at hearing. Burwood DUI lawyers confirm what is included, explain likely disbursements upfront (subpoenas, interpreters, transcripts, and experts where needed), and map the timetable so each appearance has a clear purpose. Early preparation can reduce delay and cost.

If you cannot afford private representation, you can explore Legal Aid NSW and court-based duty lawyer support where available. Legal Aid generally involves eligibility testing and a merits assessment, and criteria can change. Duty lawyers may assist with first appearances, pleas, mentions, and bail issues in appropriate cases. Burwood DUI lawyers can also discuss alternatives when funding is limited, including payment plans, staged work, or limited-scope help for the highest-risk steps first, such as urgent bail advice, negotiations, or sentencing preparation. Bring your paperwork so options can be assessed quickly.

A solicitor is usually your first point of contact. Solicitors advise you, manage preparation, obtain and analyse the brief, negotiate with prosecutors, prepare documents, and appear in the Local Court for most mentions and many pleas. Barristers focus on courtroom advocacy and are commonly briefed for complex defended hearings and appeals, especially where cross-examination and legal argument are central. Burwood DUI lawyers coordinate both roles when needed by briefing counsel clearly, keeping evidence and submissions consistent, and ensuring material is ready for the listing date.