- DUI in Ontario. First offence. What’s Next?
- That’s what I’m going to cover in this article.
- When I speak with people who’ve been charged with a DUI in Ontario, and it’s a first offence, I hear the same questions and concerns about what’s going to happen next.
- Here are 5 things you need to know about what’s next with your First Offence DUI in Ontario.
1/ You’re going to court soon
- The police will have given you paperwork that compels you to attend a court date in person or online.
- This court date is not a trial.
- This court date is called a “first appearance” because it is the initial appearance in court for your first time DUI in Ontario.
- Even though it’s not a trial, you, or a lawyer you hire, must show up.
- If you don’t, you may face further criminal charges.
2/ Don’t plead guilty at that court date
- You will enter a plea at your first court date, either not guilty or guilty.
- Now, even if you believe you are guilty or want to plead guilty, it’s premature to enter that guilty plea at this early stage of your legal process.
- No matter how you feel today, don’t plead guilty until you get proper legal advice from a criminal lawyer specializing in DUIs.
3/ You’re getting fingerprints and photographs taken
- The police will also give you paperwork with a date for fingerprints and photographs.
- Even if you believe you are innocent and want to fight your DUI charge, do not miss that fingerprint date.
- You need to go, or you will face further criminal charges.
- If at a later date you are found not guilty, or your DUI is dismissed or withdrawn, you can get your fingerprints and photographs destroyed via a File Destruction.
- Bottom line, you have to show up.
4/ Speak to a DUI lawyer
- DUIs in Ontario are known as Impaired Driving, Over 80 and Refusal to Take a Breathalyzer Test.
- These are serious charges with serious consequences.
- Even if you don’t plan to hire a lawyer, the good news is you can get free advice.
- So you should call a few different lawyers and get their opinion on where you stand and how to fight your DUI.
5/ Here’s how to find a great DUI lawyer
- DUIs are a specialized area of criminal law, and I strongly recommend you speak to a criminal lawyer specializing in fighting first offence DUIs in Ontario.
- I created a playlist of videos on how to find a great DUI lawyer.
- These videos are short and pack a lot of value.
- I’ve included a link to the YouTube playlist in the description below.
What is a first-offence DUI in Ontario?
A first-offence DUI in Ontario refers to the criminal charge of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs for the first time. This charge can result in severe consequences, including fines, license suspension, and jail time, and it's important to take the matter seriously and seek the advice of a qualified DUI lawyer.
What happens next after a first-offence DUI in Ontario?
After a first-offence DUI in Ontario, it's important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Your DUI lawyer can advise you on the next steps to take, which may include plea negotiations, preparing for trial, or filing a motion to suppress evidence. Additionally, it's important to be aware of any court appearances or deadlines, and to remain compliant with any conditions imposed by the court.
