Call For A Free Consultation:
1-866-DUI-CASE

DUI Lawyer Thornhill: Your Trusted Advocate in Impaired Driving Cases

Facing a DUI charge in Thornhill can be daunting. With potential consequences like license suspension, hefty fines, or even jail time, having an experienced advocate is essential. Our team specializes in defending DUI cases in Thornhill. With a deep understanding of Ontario’s impaired driving laws and a client-focused approach, we aim to guide you through the process and achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.

Get a free consultation

Understanding DUI in Thornhill

What is DUI?

DUI refers to Driving Under the Influence, which includes operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or both. In Ontario, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 80 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood. Even if your BAC is below this limit, impaired driving charges may still apply.

Common DUI Offences in Thornhill

Thornhill, like other areas in Ontario, sees a range of DUI-related offences. These include impaired driving, driving with a BAC over 80 mg, refusing to provide a breath sample, and care and control of a vehicle while impaired. These offences carry serious legal consequences, which can significantly affect your driving privileges and personal life.

Impaired Driving

Impaired driving involves operating a vehicle while your ability to drive is compromised due to alcohol or drugs.

Definition: Impaired driving is legally defined as driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both, which affects your ability to operate a vehicle safely. This includes both legal and illegal substances that alter your mental or physical state.

Detection:

  • Breathalyzers
  • Roadside sobriety tests
  • Drug recognition evaluations

Penalties:

  • First offence: Fine up to $1,000
  • Second offence: Minimum 30-day jail sentence
  • Third offence: Minimum 120-day jail sentence

Additional penalties may include mandatory education programs and ignition interlock device installation.

Additional Consequences:

  • Criminal record
  • Higher insurance rates
  • Potential job loss

Over 80 mg

Driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above 80 mg per 100 ml of blood is a criminal offence in Thornhill.

Legal Limit: In Ontario, the legal BAC limit is 80 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood.

Detection:

Blood or breath tests at the time of arrest measure BAC levels.

Penalties:

Penalties for driving over 80 mg can include:

  • First offence: Fine of $1,000
  • Second offence: 30-day jail sentence
  • Third offence: 120-day jail sentence

In addition to these penalties, drivers face a one-year license suspension for a first offence, with longer suspensions for subsequent offences.

Aggravating Factors:

  • High BAC levels
  • The presence of minors in the vehicle
  • Dangerous driving patterns

Long-term Consequences:

  • Loss of employment opportunities
  • Difficulty travelling internationally
  • Higher insurance rates for years

Refusing to Provide Breath Sample

Refusing to provide a breath sample when requested by a police officer is a criminal offence.

Legal Obligation: Legal Obligation: You are legally required to provide a breath sample when requested by an officer during a DUI stop.

Consequences of Refusal: Refusing a breath sample can result in immediate penalties, such as license suspension and criminal charges.

Penalties:

  • A fine of $2,000
  • Immediate 90-day license suspension
  • Mandatory education programs

Important Notes:

  • Refusal can result in harsher penalties than a DUI conviction
  • Your car may be impounded
  • You may face a longer license suspension

Care and Control

Care and control charges apply when you're found in a vehicle while impaired, even if you're not driving.

Definition: Care and control means being inside a vehicle while impaired, even if you're not driving but could potentially operate the vehicle.

Examples:

  • Sitting in the driver's seat with the keys
  • Sleeping in the vehicle with access to the ignition
  • Starting the car but not moving

Legal Implications:

  • You can still be charged even if the car isn’t in motion
  • Courts consider whether there was a risk of you driving while impaired
  • Proof of intent to drive is not required.

Penalties:

  • Fines
  • License suspension
  • Potential jail time

Defence Strategies:

  • Lack of intent to drive
  • A safe place to sleep
  • No access to the keys

Underage Impaired Driving

Young drivers in Thornhill face a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol and drug use while driving.

Zero Tolerance Policy: Ontario enforces a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21, meaning they cannot have any alcohol or drugs in their system while driving.

Detection:

  • Breathalyzers
  • Roadside tests

Penalties for Young Drivers:

  • Immediate license suspension
  • Fines up to $500
  • Mandatory educational programs

Criminal Charges:

  • DUI charges
  • Possible jail time
  • Long-term criminal record

Long-term Impact:

A criminal record from underage impaired driving can have lasting consequences, affecting your education, employment opportunities, and travel.

  • Difficulty finding a job
  • Ineligibility for specific educational programs
  • Potential travel restrictions, especially to the U.S.

DUI Offences in Thornhill: Penalties and Consequences

Penalties for DUI offences in Thornhill are determined by whether it's your first, second, or subsequent offence.

First Offence:

  • $1,000 fine
  • One-year license suspension
  • Mandatory education programs

Second Offence

  • 30-day jail sentence
  • Two-year license suspension
  • Mandatory education programs

Third and Subsequent Offences

  • 120-day jail sentence
  • Lifetime license suspension (possible reinstatement after 10 years)

Our DUI Lawyers in Thornhill

Jeff Mass

Jeff Mass

  • 10 years of successful drunk driving charges defence experience
  • Hundreds of tough impaired driving cases won
  • Knowledgeable lawyer who is not afraid to take on the police in court
Robbie Tsang

Robbie Tsang

  • Impaired driving defence expertise since 2005
  • Accepts difficult cases that other lawyers refuse to take
  • Known for custom approach and creative solutions for each case
Heather Spence

Heather Spence

  • Graduated Osgoode Hall Law School and received a Juris Doctor in Law
  • Practices exclusively in the area of criminal law
  • Is ready and able to answer your criminal law question at any time
Brian Brody

Brian Brody

  • Passionate lawyer who is committed to providing the best possible defence for his clients
  • In 2009 completed the Criminal Concentration Program at the University of Western Law School
  • In 2010 became a member of the Law Society of Upper Canada
Alexei Zaitsev

Alexei Zaitsev

  • Law degree from University of Windsor, with a heavy focus on criminal law
  • Fluent in English, Russian and Hebrew
  • Practices exclusively in the area of criminal and quasi-criminal defense

The Vital Role of an Impaired Driving Lawyer in Thornhill

An impaired driving lawyer in Thornhill can be your essential advocate, guiding you through the intricate legal process, offering experienced representation, and working to mitigate the consequences of a DUI charge.

01

Navigate Complex
Laws:

A DUI lawyer will help you understand the legal processes involved and ensure your rights are protected at every stage of the case.

02

Professional
Representation:

Having a senior lawyer by your side increases your chances of a favourable outcome in court.

03

Mitigate
Consequences:

A skilled lawyer can work to reduce penalties, avoid jail time, or minimize long-term impacts.

Why Our DUI Law Firm in Thornhill is Your Best Choice

Selecting the right law firm can significantly influence the outcome of your case.

01

Specialized Expertise:

We focus exclusively on DUI and impaired driving cases, ensuring a thorough understanding of the legal nuances involved.

02

Proven
Track Record:

Our firm has successfully represented numerous clients, helping them secure favourable results in DUI cases.

03

Personalized
Service:

We provide tailored attention to every case, addressing your unique needs and concerns.

04

Local
Knowledge:

Our lawyers are familiar with Thornhill's legal landscape and have extensive experience navigating local court procedures.

05

Free Initial
Consultation:

We offer a free consultation to review your case and discuss potential legal strategies.

06

Flexible
Payment Plans:

To ensure accessibility, we provide flexible payment options for our clients.

Testimonials

I would like to express my gratitude for your services. The way you presented your arguments and defended against cop’s attacks in court was really impressive. I hope I will never have to be in the same situation again but if I will do I know who to call!
Kalinja, Etobicoke

Get Your Free Consultation with a DUI Lawyer in Thornhill

Call 416-800-1322 for a free consultation and learn how we can assist you in fighting your DUI charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I’m charged with a DUI in Thornhill?

Stay calm, comply with the police, and avoid making statements. Contact a DUI lawyer immediately for expert legal guidance.

Can a lawyer help reduce my penalties?

Yes, a skilled DUI lawyer can negotiate for reduced penalties, alternative charges, or even a case dismissal.

What happens if I refuse a breathalyzer test in Thornhill?

Refusing a breathalyzer can result in harsher penalties than a DUI conviction, including a $2,000 fine and immediate license suspension.

Can I avoid a criminal record for a DUI charge?

Sometimes, your lawyer may negotiate a reduced charge, such as careless driving, to avoid a criminal record.

How long will a DUI conviction stay on my record?

A DUI conviction stays on your criminal record indefinitely unless you obtain a pardon. It also impacts your driving record for three years.


Conclusion

Being charged with a DUI in Thornhill is a serious matter. However, with the right legal representation, you can confidently navigate the complexities of the legal system and protect your rights. Our Senior DUI lawyers are here to provide expert advice, robust defence strategies, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Whether it's your first offence or a repeat charge, we understand the significant impact a DUI conviction can have on your life and are dedicated to helping you move forward.

Take Action Now

Don’t Wait—Contact Us Today for Your Free Consultation

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique, and outcomes can vary. Consult with a qualified lawyer for advice specific to your situation.