If you are prosecuted for driving whilst over the prescribed limit (drink driving) this can have serious consequences for you and your family.
Drink Driving
If this is your first offence you will be banned from driving for a minimum of 12 months up rising to three years in more serious cases. You will also receive a fine rising to a community order or even a prison sentence in certain circumstances.
Expert Motoring Offences Solicitors
At GT Stewart Solicitors & Advocates, we understand that being charged with a motoring offence can be stressful, disruptive, and carry serious consequences. From speeding and driving without insurance to more serious allegations such as dangerous driving or driving under the influence, our specialist motoring offences team provides expert advice and representation at every stage of the process.
We guide our clients through police investigations, court proceedings, and potential licence or penalty issues, ensuring that all legal options are carefully considered. Our approach combines practical solutions with a strategic focus on protecting your driving record, liberty, and future.
Whether you are facing a single motoring charge or complex, multiple allegations, our solicitors act quickly to provide clear advice, robust representation, and support tailored to your circumstances.
Experienced Motoring Offences Lawyers
Our specialist motoring offences team has extensive experience representing clients facing a wide range of road traffic matters, from speeding, careless or dangerous driving, to more serious allegations such as driving under the influence or driving without insurance. We provide clear advice and representation at every stage, including police investigations, court proceedings, and licence-related matters.
We can help dramatically improve your chances of being found not guilty or avoiding disqualification. Email GT Stewart at roadtraffic@gtstewart.co.uk to speak with a member of our specialist motoring law team, or use our online enquiry form. We will respond at a time and date convenient to you, ensuring that you receive prompt, personalised advice tailored to your case.
Drink Driving
Sentencing in more detail
The court has guidelines available to them when sentencing offences. If you are a first-time offender, and enter a guilty plea at the Magistrates’ Court the offence will fall under one of four categories. Sentencing can range from a Band C fine and 12 months of disqualification at the lower end, to 26 weeks in custody and 36 months of disqualification at the higher end.
However, if you have a previous ‘relevant conviction’ in the preceding 10 years to the current incident, the starting point for a ban is 3 years and can rise to 5 years in more serious instances.
Do you have a defence?
- You were not the driver
- The driving did not take place on a road or public place
- The procedure in taking the sample was not carried out correctly
- The testing equipment was not operating correctly or accurately
- If you were under the limit at the time you were driving (you drank alcohol at home which put you over the limit). This is known as the ‘hip flask’ defence
- Special Reasons (if established, court has discretion not to disqualify you).
Reducing your driving ban
- Your driving ban can be reduced by up to 25% if you agree to attend a Drink Drive Rehabilitation Course. You must pay for this course and you must agree to advise the court at the time of your sentence hearing that you want to attend such a course.
Our team of expert motoring solicitors can be contacted at GT Stewart by completing our online enquiry form or by email at roadtraffic@gtstewart.co.uk.
Our Services
At GT Stewart Solicitors, our specialist motoring offences team provides clear, practical advice across the full range of road traffic matters. Whether you are facing a speeding allegation, a drink or drug driving charge, or a more serious offence such as dangerous driving, early legal advice can make a significant difference to the outcome of your case.
We understand that for many clients, their driving licence is essential for work, family responsibilities, and day-to-day life. Allegations can carry penalty points, fines, disqualification, or even imprisonment. Our experienced lawyers will assess the evidence, advise you on your options, and build a strong defence where appropriate.
Below you will find guidance on the most common motoring offences we deal with, together with practical information about the legal process and how we can help protect your licence and your livelihood.
Click on the images below to read detailed advice on each motoring offence.
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Parking fines and offences
Why choose GT Stewart?
“We will do all the law permits to keep you on the road”
GT Stewart have a proven track record of success with defending driving offences and know exactly how to prepare an effective defence in order to give you the best chance of winning your case.
Our Expert Lawyers are ready to Help
GT Stewart has established itself as a leading firm in the UK, specialising in both private cases and also Legal Aid work.
Meet some of our Criminal Defence team
Speak to one of our Motoring Offences Solicitors
Our Tenacity Results in Success
We represented a client in proceedings where the prosecution sought to invoke the “slip rule” under section 385 of the Sentencing Act 2020.
By | May 21, 2026
We represented a client who had been charged with two charges of possession of bladed articles, resulting in his acquittal.
By | May 13, 2026
We represented a vulnerable client who was charged with serious assault charges following her detention under the Mental Health Act.
By | May 12, 2026
Client Testimonials
“I wanted to take a moment to thank you both [Max Konarek and Alison Barar] sincerely for the care, attention and professionalism you have shown in relation to this case….For a long time, I felt unheard and dismissed despite repeatedly trying to raise concerns, provide evidence and advocate…Reading the statement you prepared was the first time in a very long time that I felt genuinely reassured and optimistic that the truth may finally be presented properly and fairly before the Court. It gave me confidence that the wider context and reality of [our lives are] finally being understood. I truly believe that truth ultimately prevails and I cannot adequately express how grateful I am to both of you for listening carefully and treating these matters with seriousness and humanity…I appreciate that [my case requires] careful presentation and I trust your professional judgment completely.”
“[Jessica Smith] is a good human. Very helpful. I am very grateful for her help. Thank you so much..”
“Solicitor Harry Charalambous, my incredible paralegal Louise Abiodun, and the exceptional team of barristers who stood beside me throughout my Crown Court case. Because of their unwavering commitment, extraordinary professionalism, and tireless hard work, I was found Not Guilty — a moment that has changed my life forever. During one of the darkest and most frightening periods of my life, they became a source of strength, reassurance, and hope. From the very beginning, Louise Abiodun showed immense compassion, patience, and dedication, always making sure I felt supported and informed throughout the entire process. Her kindness and constant reassurance meant more to me and my family than words can describe. Harry Charalambous demonstrated exceptional expertise, determination, and confidence in handling my case, while the barristers fought passionately and fearlessly for justice in court. Their preparation, attention to detail, and belief in me gave my family hope when we needed it most. Watching this remarkable team work with such integrity and commitment filled my parents and me with immense respect and admiration. The relief, happiness, and peace we felt after hearing the Not Guilty verdict is something we will never forget, and it simply would not have been possible without them. People like Harry Charalambous, Louise Abiodun, and their team do far more than simply practise law — they change lives, protect the innocent, and restore faith during the most difficult moments imaginable. The work they do is truly noble and deserves the highest praise. My family and I will remain eternally grateful for everything they have done for us. I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone seeking outstanding legal representation. Truly exceptional professionals and even better human beings.”
“I’m very happy with McGrath & co solicitors (part of GT Stewart) excellent, professional service. I’m satisfied about my case. Thank you so much Mr Dirghayu Patel and Alisha Lumsden.”
“Fantastic service from Dirghayu Patel regarding my housing situation with the council. Highly recommend this firm.”