LOW RANGE PCA DRINK DRIVING CHARGE
What is Low Range PCA?
Low Range PCA is categorized by the Law as having an alcohol level between 0.05 and 0.79.
There was a change in the law which came into effect from 20 May 2019. Police now have the power to either:
- Issue an Infringement notice for a low range PCA offence; or
- Issue a Court Attendance Notice for the offence.
If you receive an infringement notice from the police, you will either be suspended on the spot by the police, or you will receive a letter from RMS at a later date, suspending your driver’s licence.
You have the right to elect to take the matter to Court if you have exceptional circumstances.
Being charged with a Low Range PCA is still regarded as a serious matter, even though it is the lowest range you can be charged with on an unconditional drivers’ licence. If you are convicted by the court, there are penalties including losing your licence. There are important factors that influence the Magistrate who is sentencing you. One of these is whether you have been convicted for any level of a PCA offence in the previous 5 years.
What can happen to me if I am found Guilty of a Low Range PCA – First Offence?
There are a number of penalties the Magistrate hearing your matter may impose on you. These include:
- A criminal conviction is recorded.
- A fine of up to $2,200.
- An automatic disqualification of your licence for a period of 6 months which can be reduced by the Magistrate to a minimum period of 3 months.
What can happen to me if I am found Guilty of a Low Range PCA – Second or Subsequent Offence?
- A criminal conviction is recorded.
- A fine up to $3,300.
- A minimum disqualification of your licence for a period of 1 month and a maximum disqualification period of 3 months.
- An Interlock participation order for 12 months.
This is What Drink Driving Solicitors Can Do for You!
Drink Driving Solicitors can advise you on what the likely outcome to your Low Range PCA. We can prepare your matter, attend court with you, and represent your case in the best possible way to the Magistrate so that you may obtain the best potential outcome, including a possible Section 10 Dismissal of your charges or a conditional release order without conviction.
We have offices throughout Sydney & New South Wales.
We also attend country NSW clients by appointment.
We care
We understand that you are not a criminal and we will treat you with respect and dignity. We understand your case is unique and so are your needs, and we will ensure that the Court also are made aware of these, when we are representing you.
Please do not hesitate to “Contact Us“ for immediate professional advice
