Drink Driving Charges in Victoria
A drink driving charge can put your licence, your finances and your future at risk, and it often happens to people who never expected to be in this position.
At Marco Man & Associates, we help Victorian drivers understand exactly where they stand and what can be done to protect them. Whatever the reading or the circumstances, our experienced legal team is here to guide you through every step.
What Is a Drink Driving Offence?
A drink driving offence occurs when a person operates a motor vehicle with a blood or breath alcohol concentration above the legal limit, or while impaired by alcohol. In Victoria, the general limit for fully licensed drivers is 0.05, while learner, probationary and certain professional drivers must maintain a zero reading. The offence is commonly charged as exceeding the prescribed concentration of alcohol, often referred to as exceed PCA.
Charges can arise from a roadside breath test, a further test at a police station, or a blood sample taken after an incident. The seriousness of the matter usually depends on the reading recorded, whether it is a first or repeat offence, and the circumstances of the driving involved.
What Penalties Can Apply to a Drink Driving Charge?
Penalties for a drink driving offence in Victoria can be significant, even for a first offence. The court and licensing authorities consider the reading, your driving history and the surrounding circumstances when determining an outcome. Possible consequences include:
- Immediate licence suspension and a subsequent period of licence loss or cancellation.
- Fines, which increase with higher readings and repeat offending.
- Mandatory completion of a behaviour change program before relicensing.
- An alcohol interlock condition requiring an approved device to be fitted to your vehicle.
- A criminal record in more serious cases, which can affect employment and travel.
- Imprisonment in the most serious or repeat matters.
Because the consequences can extend well beyond the courtroom, it is important to understand your position early and to know what options may be available to you.
How Our Lawyers Assist With Drink Driving Matters
Our Melbourne drink driving lawyers provide clear, practical guidance from the moment you are charged. We take the time to understand your circumstances, review the evidence and explain your options in plain language so you can make informed decisions. Drink driving is one of several traffic matters we handle, and we bring the same care and attention to every case we take on.
Depending on your situation, we can examine how the sample was taken and whether correct procedures were followed, advise on whether to contest the charge or enter a plea, prepare material that presents your circumstances in the best possible light, and represent you in the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria. Our focus is always on protecting your licence where possible and working towards the best available outcome. Where eligible, we can also assist with Victoria Legal Aid applications.
Common Situations Our Clients Face
Every matter is different, and we recognise that a charge can happen to people from all walks of life. Clients often come to us in situations such as:
- A first offence after an unexpected roadside test on the way home.
- A reading only marginally over the limit, with a genuine belief they were under.
- A probationary driver charged for a low reading under the zero-alcohol rule.
- A repeat matter where a further period of licence loss or an interlock is likely.
- A driver who relies on their licence for work and is concerned about losing their livelihood.
Whatever your circumstances, we are here to listen without judgment and to help you understand the road ahead.
Get Advice From a Drink Driving Lawyer
If you have been charged with a drink driving offence, early advice can make a real difference to the outcome. Contact Marco Man & Associates to arrange a free, confidential consultation with one of our experienced Melbourne lawyers. We will explain your situation clearly and help you take the right next step.