Centobin Law offers expert legal defence to protect your rights and secure your future. Whether it's a first-time offence or a repeat incident, our DUI lawyer in Calgary can help.

With significant consequences at stake, having a skilled legal team on your side is crucial. We understand that an impaired driving charge can be stressful and overwhelming. You don't have to face it alone. At Centobin Law, we are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for you.

In Canada, impaired driving — commonly known as DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or DWI (Driving While Impaired) — is a criminal offence under the Criminal Code. These laws exist to promote road safety and hold individuals accountable for endangering public welfare.

Convictions can carry severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, mandatory programs, or even jail time. That's why working with an experienced DUI lawyer is essential if you're facing charges.

Impaired driving occurs when a driver operates a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs or a mix of both. It causes a diminished ability to control the vehicle safely. Alcohol-impaired driving is typically determined by the driver's Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. However, impairment can also result from drug use, including cannabis and certain prescription medications. Even if your BAC is below the legal limit, visible signs of impairment can still lead to charges.

A BAC of 0.08% or higher typically qualifies as alcohol impairment. But drug use — including prescription medications or cannabis — can also lead to charges. Even minor signs of impairment may result in legal action.

Under Canadian law, there are several categories of impaired driving offences, including:

• Alcohol-Impaired Driving: Operating a vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or higher.
• Drug-Impaired Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs like cannabis or prescription medications.
• Over 80: Driving with a BAC exceeding 80 mg of alcohol in 100 mL of blood.
• Refusal to Comply: Refusing to provide a breath or blood sample when requested by law enforcement. This carries its own set of penalties.

The Criminal Code of Canada treats all these offences with severity, which can result in fines, imprisonment, and a lasting criminal record.

While DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated or Impaired) are often used interchangeably, their definitions can vary depending on the jurisdiction. In many regions, both terms refer to operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Some states distinguish between the two based on the level or type of impairment. For example, DUI may apply to driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs—whether prescription, over-the-counter, or illegal—or a combination of substances. DWI, on the other hand, may specifically refer to driving with a higher level of intoxication or impairment.

The legal meaning of these terms—and the penalties associated with them—depends on the laws of your particular state or province.

The consequences of an impaired driving conviction can be life-altering. Even a first-time conviction can have a profoundly negative impact on your personal and professional life.

Penalties for First-Time Offenders:

• Fines: A minimum fine of $1,000.
• License Suspension: Immediate license suspension for 3 months, followed by a longer-term after conviction.
• Criminal Record: A permanent criminal record that can affect future employment, travel, and more.
• Mandatory Ignition Interlock Program: An ignition interlock device must be installed in your vehicle.

Penalties for Repeat Offenders:

• Increased Fines: Substantially higher fines for repeat convictions.
• Longer License Suspension: Possible suspension of 1 year or more.
• Jail Time: Minimum of 30 days in jail for a second offence and 120 days for a third.
• Prolonged Ignition Interlock: Required for up to 5 years after regaining your license.

In addition to these penalties, an impaired driving charge can result in higher insurance premiums, difficulty renting a vehicle, and public stigma.

We focus on protecting your rights and defending you against impaired driving charges. We understand how devastating these charges can be and aim to minimize their impact on your life.

Here's why you can trust our law firm:

• Specialized in Impaired Driving Cases: We have years of experience successfully defending clients charged with impaired driving. We are familiar with the laws, local courts, and the process of challenging the prosecution's evidence.
• Client-Focused Representation: We work closely with you to understand your unique circumstances. Your story matters, and we're here to ensure your voice is heard in court.
• Proven Defense Strategies: Our legal team employs various defense tactics, such as:
  • challenging the legality of the stop,
  • questioning the accuracy of breathalyzer results,
  • And scrutinizing the procedure used by law enforcement. We leave no stone unturned in fighting for the best possible outcome for your case.

Fighting an impaired driving charge requires experience and a deep understanding of criminal law. We offer a comprehensive defence strategy tailored to each client's specific case.

Our Legal Defense Process:

• Initial Case Evaluation: We offer a free consultation to review the details of your case and explain your legal options.
• Investigation: Our team thoroughly investigates the circumstances surrounding your arrest, including police reports, witness statements, and any video or audio evidence.
• Challenging Evidence: Many impaired driving cases hinge on evidence like field sobriety tests. We scrutinize the accuracy and reliability of these tests to identify any errors or procedural mistakes.
• Court Representation: We handle all aspects of your case in court, from filing motions to representing you during hearings and negotiations. If necessary, we will take your case to trial, where we will fight for a favourable verdict.

We aim to either reduce your penalties or dismiss the charges against you entirely. Every impaired driving case is unique, and our DUI lawyer ensures that your defence strategy is tailored to achieve the best possible outcome.

If you or someone you care about is facing impaired driving charges, don't wait. The sooner you contact a qualified DUI lawyer, the better your chances of a successful defence.

Contact Centobin Law today for a confidential consultation. We're here to protect your future.