The best DUI lawyers in Canberra

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ACT Law Courts

Looking for a DUI lawyer? Read through our list of some of the best in Canberra. Photo: Michelle Kroll.

Did you know that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (also known as DUI), is a factor in about one-third of serious vehicle accidents and collisions in Australia? It’s no surprise, then, that authorities take the offence seriously. And the higher the level of alcohol in your blood, the greater the potential fine or jail time served may be.

If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence, you might like to consider legal representation. A reliable and experienced lawyer can help mitigate some or all of your charges and provide invaluable advice and guidance as you navigate the process.

But what qualities should you consider when hiring a DUI lawyer, and where can you find the best in Canberra? Let’s take a closer look.

What makes a great DUI lawyer?

The penalties associated with DUI of alcohol can be severe. That’s why it’s essential to obtain reliable legal representation. If you’re not exactly sure what you are looking for in a DUI lawyer, start by seeking out the following attributes:

  • Specialist experience. Criminal law is specialised – offences related to drink driving even more so. Your best bet is to work with a DUI lawyer in Canberra who has specialist experience managing these types of situations.
  • Knowledge of DUI charges. Everyone’s circumstances are unique, and that’s why working with a law professional with expert knowledge of DUI charges is vital. They should be able to guide you toward the best possible outcome, whether that’s by going to court, pleading guilty, or through another course of action.
  • Compassionate and non-judgemental. We all know that driving under the influence is dangerous. The DUI lawyer you work with should not judge you for what you’ve done. Instead, they should have compassion for your situation and do whatever it takes to protect your interest.
  • Fairly priced. A competitive price point is always an attractive trait. However, remember that you will often get what you pay for.

The best DUI lawyers in Canberra

RiotACT’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.

To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on RiotACT and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.

BDN Lawyers

For more than 150 years, BDN Lawyers (BDN) has delivered leading legal services to residents of Canberra, Queanbeyan, and surrounding areas. Their team is equipped with extensive knowledge of all legal areas, including property law, family law, personal injury, and criminal law. Accordingly, they can guide you through your DUI with confidence, making this tricky situation that little bit more bearable.

Kamy Saeedi Law

With a specialisation in ACT and NSW traffic law, the team at Kamy Saeedi Law have the talent, experience, and track record to help you get back on your feet. Whether you are dealing with traffic fines, mobile phone use, dangerous driving, or driving under the influence, they understand just how intimidating the legal process can be.

That is why the team at Kamy Saeedi Law are prepared to roll up their sleeves and work in your corner, going above and beyond to secure the best possible client outcome. The team will deal with police, prosecutors, and courts, as well as attending other necessary events at short notice.

Kamy Saeedi Law also offers a comprehensive 24-hour emergency service for times when prompt and accurate legal advice are essential. With their specialised knowledge of traffic offences you can rest assured that they will do all they can to place your future in safe hands.

As Nick Burden shared on Google, "No better lawyers then the team here."

Emergency After Hours Contact: 1800 531 467

Charles Filgate Giles & Associates

Charles Filgate Giles & Associates are skilled, experienced, and compassionate law professionals that can help you overcome even the most difficult situations. They know traffic law and are more than happy to assist you as you respond to your DUI charges.

Snedden Hall & Gallop

Snedden Hall & Gallop has expert lawyers who can guide you through the legal process, including advising you about all available options. Quality legal representation is key to having the best possible opportunity to retain your drivers licence. Snedden Hall & Gallop takes more time to thoroughly prepare your case in order to get you the best outcome, so their prices may be higher.

As Michel Tremblant wrote on Google, "After being recommended Snedden, Hall & Gallop (SHG) lawyers, I have nothing but good things to say about this highly professional law firm.... From the beginning through to the end, when orders were issued by the court, the lawyers were extremely helpful and hardworking."

If you’re looking for more information on lawyers in Canberra, you might like our articles on the best law firms and the best criminal lawyers Canberra has to offer.

Your experience with DUI lawyers in Canberra

Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.

Have you had experience with any of the DUI lawyers listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to have my DUI charge handled?

The cost depends on factors such as how much you were over the limit (level of alcohol in your blood), whether an accident was involved and if it's your first offence. The best way to determine costs is to ask your lawyer for a quote/estimate.

Do DUI lawyers do payment plans?

This is a question to ask your lawyer. Most require a retainer of some kind and some definitely offer staggered payment plans.

This is my first DUI offence. Will the charges be dropped?

This depends on factors like how much you were over the limit and your character. Your lawyer will talk to you about the factors involved and your chances of getting off.

Will my lawyer judge me?

The best DIU lawyers don’t judge clients. They’re there to help represent you with compassion and work hard to protect your interests.

Can I use my general practice lawyer to represent me?

Criminal law is specialised and offences relating to drink driving even more so. Chances are you’ll want a lawyer who has years of experience with DIU charges and a great track record in getting clients the best results possible.

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golden_youth said :

Better call Saul – http://www.bettercallsaul.com/

WTF? Ah, Google has been my friend….

Had too many stubs? You need Steve stubs he advertises on the wireless 0418482587

devils_advocate1:41 pm 11 Jul 12

Slumlord said :

golden_youth said :

Better call Saul – http://www.bettercallsaul.com/

Best site I’ve seen in a long time

I would like to hand out some props to the TV show in general, the malcolm-in-the-middle dad guy (dunno the actor’s name) really just makes the whole thing.

golden_youth said :

Better call Saul – http://www.bettercallsaul.com/

Best site I’ve seen in a long time

My experience is that there was a defence a few years ago if the charge was low range drink driving and you could prove a certain number of years without any other offences. I think it is under Section 10 where the magistrate can prove the charge without conviction or something along those lines which means no loss of license. I think it would be well worth getting a good lawyer if you want to go down this path. I have used Grant Kennealy who cost me around $800 but and he was very good, especially when compared with some of the other solicitors you will see in there. You will need to provide character references to the effect that they know of the charge and that this is out of character for you, along with any other evidence you can find of your good character (volunteering, coaching kids sports etc.),
The other option is a apply for a restricted license if you really need to drive to care for your children or for work. This all depends on whether you have the option of using public transport however and just being inconvenienced is not enough. This is an additional charge I think.
Hope this helps.

That could be the greatest web page in the world.

devils_advocate8:47 am 11 Jul 12

The_TaxMan said :

Why do you assume its a he? i think you’ll find that stupidity is not gender specific

It’s only men that get screwed over by the courts in custody disputes.

Jethro said :

Deref said :

Why would you lose your license for a “super low range drink-driving” charge?

If you read the OP he said it could affect hi shared custody arrangements with his ex.

I think it’s less about losing his license and more about losing access to his kids.

Although I can’t see how a low range DUI would do that unless his drinking was an issue raised during the original custody proceedings.

Why do you assume its a he? i think you’ll find that stupidity is not gender specific

It’s a Canberra court.

Just turn up and tell them that you are an oppresessed gender neutral cripple who had their land stolen and was abused as a child by your alcoholic step-father (who was a senior member of the Liberal Party) and you are now forced to use drugs, break into houses and drink drive through circumstances outside your control. If you can make up some new psychiatric disorder as well, it would certainly assist.

Throw in a reference to the police victimising you if the opportunity presents itself as well.

Deny all personal responsibility and blame everyone else. That seems to work well in Canberra Courts.

The Magistrate will probably award you a new car and a chaffeur for life.

On the other hand, if you are white, young, male, good up bringing, non-indigenous, heterosexual, apolitical father… You’re f*cked.

Paint it black.

I-filed said :

Find out who murderess Anu Singh used to help her get out of every drug-taking offence she committed while on parole and required to be drug and alcohol free?

Don’t you mean manslaughteress?

dungfungus said :

Who did John Hargreaves use?

ha ha! good one! But seriously, would be worth investigating.

Find out who murderess Anu Singh used to help her get out of every drug-taking offence she committed while on parole and required to be drug and alcohol free?

Slumlord said :

Mal Meninga, from Meninga Edwards Johnson

I actually lol’d

Mal Meninga, from Meninga Edwards Johnson

Jethro said :

Deref said :

Why would you lose your license for a “super low range drink-driving” charge?

If you read the OP he said it could affect hi shared custody arrangements with his ex.

I think it’s less about losing his license and more about losing access to his kids.

Although I can’t see how a low range DUI would do that unless his drinking was an issue raised during the original custody proceedings.

Shows poor judgement and risk taking.

Rachel Bird!

Aulich and Pappas are urban myths when it comes to getting off in Canberra. Case in point, recent murder convictions in Canberra.

Represent yourself and take your custody arrangements seriously. Yes, it’s your fault

Who did John Hargreaves use?

Deref said :

Why would you lose your license for a “super low range drink-driving” charge?

If you read the OP he said it could affect hi shared custody arrangements with his ex.

I think it’s less about losing his license and more about losing access to his kids.

Although I can’t see how a low range DUI would do that unless his drinking was an issue raised during the original custody proceedings.

Stupidity in a car when you were younger, and now more stupidity in a car when you’re older.

At least you’re being consistent… 😉

What do you call a super low range reading? If it’s 0.05/6 then i would defend myself because having a lawyer represent you is going to make bugger all difference to the outcome.

Why would you lose your license for a “super low range drink-driving” charge?

shirty_bear said :

Is Jack Pappas still working in this town? He’s a bona fide genius at beating the rap.

He is no good if there is no defence. Sounds like you are going to plead guilty, but want someone to represent you. If that’s the case, I wouldn’t waste my money.

carnardly said :

what’s your defence…?

🙂

“She drove me to drink”.

what’s your defence…? 🙂

shirty_bear said :

Is Jack Pappas still working in this town? He’s a bona fide genius at beating the rap.

Sure is.

Is Jack Pappas still working in this town? He’s a bona fide genius at beating the rap.

Try Jason Moffett at Stacks.

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