DUI Charges in Guelph
If you have been charged with impaired driving, over 80, refusal to provide a breath sample, dangerous driving, and care and control in Guelph, the consequences are serious. A first offence DUI carries a mandatory minimum $1,000 fine and one-year driving prohibition. Second offence: 30 days jail. Third offence: 120 days jail. Maximum: 10 years imprisonment by indictment.
The Guelph courthouse at 36 Wyndham Street South serves Wellington County, with the Ontario Superior Court of Justice sitting at 74 Woolwich Street for more serious matters. Guelph Police Service handles law enforcement within the city. The University of Guelph campus means the court regularly sees drug-related offences and assault charges. Guelph is also within proximity to Highway 401, where OPP enforcement contributes to impaired driving charges heard at this courthouse.
How We Defend DUI Charges
Every dui case is different, but experienced defence lawyers look for weaknesses in the Crown’s case at every stage. Common defence strategies include:
- Charter challenges to the traffic stop or arrest
- Breathalyzer maintenance and calibration errors
- Right to counsel violations under s. 10(b)
- Challenging the grounds for the breath demand
- Exclusion of evidence under s. 24(2) of the Charter
- Challenging care and control presumptions
The Court Process in Guelph
Criminal charges in Guelph are heard at the Guelph Courthouse. Your first appearance will typically be scheduled within a few weeks of being charged. At that appearance, your lawyer will receive disclosure (the Crown’s evidence against you) and begin assessing the strength of the case.