Impaired Driving Lawyers in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat, Alberta
Driving with more than 80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood OR refusing to provide a breath sample when requested are both categorized as impaired driving offences in Canada. The Criminal Code provides a fine of $1000 for a first offence, and a criminal conviction will also be registered on your permanent record. Subsequent drunk driving convictions may lead to a 30 day jail sentence, as well as other penalties. A third strike will lead to a minimum punishment of 120 days in jail. If the police suspect you're driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs, your driver's license could be immediately suspended under the Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS) program.
Our team understands the consequences of impaired driving convictions and their potential impact on your ability to work, travel, and live your life.
At Hadford Defence Group, we have defended people charged with impaired driving, driving over 80, or refusing to give a breath sample when asked. We will provide you with a robust defence, ensure the Court understands your full circumstances, and work hard to get you the best possible outcome. Get in touch with our lawyers in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat, Alberta, today.
Understanding Impaired Driving Charges in Alberta
Under Canadian law, impaired driving includes:
► Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
► Operating with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at or above 80 mg per 100 mL of blood.
► Refusal to comply with a breathalyzer or roadside screening device.
The province of Alberta enforces additional administrative penalties alongside federal charges, such as immediate license suspensions, vehicle seizures, and mandatory ignition interlock requirements.
Charges may vary depending on whether it's a first-time offence, a repeat occurrence, or involves aggravating factors such as accidents or injuries. The legal process can be complex and time-sensitive, particularly when dealing with automatic license suspensions and time-bound disclosure requirements.
Key Aspects to Consider When Seeking a Lawyer for Impaired Driving
Key factors to keep in mind when selecting legal representation for impaired driving charges:
Experience and Expertise
Legal knowledge must be matched with courtroom experience. Our firm handles impaired driving cases regularly and is familiar with the courtroom procedures, prosecutorial strategies, and evidentiary standards involved. We strive to apply this experience toward the specific requirements of each client’s case.
Knowledge of the Law
We maintain familiarity with relevant case law and procedural updates. Impaired driving law is continually evolving due to advancements in testing technology, legislative amendments, and court rulings. Our legal team stays up to date on changes affecting how impaired driving cases are prosecuted and defended in Alberta.
Personalized Approach
Hadford Defence Group does not apply a one-size-fits-all strategy. Each case is reviewed based on its evidence, police procedures, the client's personal history, and the surrounding circumstances. This approach helps ensure that any available legal avenues—such as racial discrimination by police, charter defences, technical errors, or insufficient evidence—are not overlooked.
Access to Professionals
Some impaired driving cases involve reliable testimony. We may consult with toxicologists, forensic specialists, or breathalyzer technicians to support or challenge the prosecution’s evidence. These collaborations can be critical when addressing the accuracy of BAC readings or the effects of medications.
Experience with Breathalyzers
Approved screening devices and breathalyzers must meet strict calibration, usage, and maintenance standards. Any deviation can affect the admissibility of results. Our legal team is experienced in reviewing instrument records, officer qualifications, and testing procedures to determine compliance.
Understanding Penalties
Penalties for impaired driving in Alberta may include:
► Fines
► Mandatory driving prohibitions
► Criminal records
► Vehicle seizures
► Jail time in severe or repeat cases
We ensure that clients understand the potential consequences of a conviction and work to mitigate penalties where possible through negotiation, evidence review, or legal motions. Call us today to discuss your legal situation with our experienced impaired driving offence lawyers in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat.
Consequences of Multiple Impaired Driving Offences
Some of the consequences include:
► Fines
► Imprisonment
► Loss of livelihood
► Loss of driver’s license
► Issues with immigration and citizenship applications
► Deemed ineligible for certain jobs and opportunities
If you are facing a charge of impaired driving, speak to us today. We serve clients across Southern Alberta.
Why Choose Us?
Here is why clients choose our impaired driving offence lawyers in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat:
-
Focused on impaired driving defence: We regularly represent clients facing charges such as impaired operation, driving over 80, refusal to provide a sample, and drug-impaired driving.
-
Available 24/7 for legal assistance: Our team provides round-the-clock support to ensure clients can access legal guidance at any stage of the process.
-
Detailed legal and procedural analysis: We assess all aspects of each case, including Charter rights, police conduct, timelines, and the technical accuracy of testing procedures.
-
Strong professional affiliations: Our lawyers are in good standing with the Law Society of Alberta and are active in legal associations dedicated to defence work.
-
Access to professional analysis: Where required, we work with toxicologists and breathalyzer specialists to evaluate and challenge the evidence presented by the Crown.
-
Clear and professional communication: We prioritize factual, timely, and respectful communication so clients understand each stage of their legal proceedings.
Contact us today to learn more about our legal services in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat. Read our customer reviews to see what they are saying about our services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are questions people ask our lawyers in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat, Alberta:
Contact our impaired driving lawyer for legal services in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat, Alberta.
