One of the most popular criminal offenses in Australia is drink driving and most drivers do not take it seriously until they find themselves before a magistrate and realize the consequences of the legal action towards them. Not only is it a traffic ticket but it is a criminal offense which may leave a permanent record, a loss of license and even a jail sentence. The punishments are severe and the punishment increases at a very high rate because of the blood alcohol content (BAC) level and the history. These ramifications can be extremely important to a person under charges, because their effects are much more than just in the courtroom.
An Immediate Fine and License Suspension
To the majority of offenders, the initial penalty is instant. Higher-range crimes must prompt the police to revoke a driver license on the spot. Such an instant loss of mobility can be disastrous to people who need their car to get to their job or family obligations. When the case is taken to the court, the punishment will be a fine, which can be in a few hundred dollars in case of minor violation, or thousands in case of the grave or repeated violation.
The extent of the punishment is directly associated with the BAC reading. A low range offense would lead to a less disqualification period, however, any driving over the legal alcohol limit of 0.05 percent would raise the stakes considerably. In the case of mid-range and high-range crimes, there are mandatory minimum disqualification sentences, which is that there is no option of the magistrate allowing you to retain your license. Other areas, such as Victoria, have strict legislation, such that even first-time offenders may suffer prolonged road bans, which can be followed by the optional but mandatory fitting of an alcohol interlock device at their own cost.
Criminal Convictions and Imprisonment
The worst impact may be, of course, a criminal conviction. A conviction of drink driving will be listed in a police check which may hamper any future employment opportunities, travel visa (particularly to countries such as the USA) as well as professional accreditation. Some first-time offenders can successfully evade a conviction being registered under a so-called diversion program or under a certain court order, but there is no guarantee of such and this is not an easy task.
To repeat offenders or very high BAC, the threat of incarceration is actual. Courts consider drink driving as a major danger to the safety of the people. When aggravating circumstances exist, like causing an accident, driving with a suspended license, or having children in the car, the magistrates are now more open to suspended or immediate jail sentences to make a statement to the community.
Mandatory Behavior Change Programs
Rehabilitation is also of concern to the legal system. Drivers who are convicted are usually expected to undergo accredited behavior change programs before they can be allowed to apply again to their license. These training programs inform the drivers about the impact of alcohol and the dangers of driving while unfit. These programs are not optional and failing to complete them leaves you ineligible forever.
Conclusion
One of the critical things is that a charge on driving under the influence of alcohol must be taken seriously. Fines, loss of license, possible jail life and a criminal record will annul the life of a person. It is not fixed in stone though. By enlisting the services of an experienced lawyer, the punishment can be reduced to a minimum, and one wrong action will not become your lot in life.
