Driving while Disqualified
Getting caught driving while disqualified can cary serious penalties including fines, further loss of licence and, for repeat offenders, even jail.
Need an experienced driving lawyer?
If you’ve been charged with a driving offence, received a summons to attend court, been arrested by Victoria Police, or need urgent legal advice, obtaining early legal representation can make a significant difference to how your matter progresses.
At Wilkinson Lawyers, we practise exclusively in criminal law matters across Victoria. We regularly appear at the Ballarat Magistrates’ Court and other metropolitan and regional courts.
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Talk To An Experienced Traffic Lawyer
Being charged with a driving offence is stressful. Many clients contact us after what they describe as the worst day of their life. They are worried about losing their licence, their employment, their reputation, or even their liberty. Our role is to guide you through the legal process, explain your options in plain English, protect your rights and work towards the best available outcome based on the facts of your case.
Whether you intend to plead guilty or contest the allegations, obtaining legal advice as early as possible is one of the most important steps you can take.
Get in direct contact with Jessica Wilkinson now, and receive expert advice on how to deal with your case
What does it mean to be 'disqualified'
When your driver’s licence has been disqualified, it means your licence has been cancelled and you are not legally permitted to drive until the disqualification period has ended and you have met all legal requirements to regain your licence.
Driving while disqualified is a serious criminal offence that can result in significant penalties, including further licence disqualification, substantial fines and, in some cases, imprisonment.
A court may disqualify your licence after you plead guilty to, or are found guilty of, certain serious driving offences, including
Drink driving
Drug driving
Refusing a breath test
Refusing a drug test
Dangerous driving
Other serious traffic offences under Victorian law.
Before you can legally drive again, you may also be required to complete additional requirements such as an alcohol interlock program, a Behaviour Change Program, or apply to have your licence reissued.
If you have been charged with a traffic offence or have received notice that your licence has been disqualified or suspended, Wilkinson Lawyers can advise you about your legal options, the period of disqualification, and any steps you need to take before you are eligible to drive again. We regularly represent clients in drink driving, drug driving, dangerous driving, and other traffic law matters throughout Victoria.
Do I need a lawyer?
Penalties for driving while disqualified can be serious, particularly for a second or subsequent offence. Typically, a first offence can be dealt with by way of a fine, however jail (up to 2 years) is also a possible sentence for repeat offenders.
You are not legally required to have a lawyer. However, criminal proceedings involve rules of evidence, legislation, court procedure and sentencing principles that most people have never encountered.
A lawyer can assist by:
- Explaining the allegations.
- Reviewing the prosecution brief.
- Identifying weaknesses in the evidence.
- Negotiating with police where appropriate.
- Preparing your plea.
- Representing you in court.
- Advising whether a charge should be contested.
- Protecting your legal rights throughout the process.
Even where the allegations appear straightforward, obtaining legal advice can significantly improve your understanding of the options available.
Talk To An Experienced Traffic Lawyer
Get in direct contact with Jessica Wilkinson now, and receive expert advice on how to deal with your case