Facing a drink driving charge in Queensland can be a daunting experience, but being prepared and organised can significantly ease the process. Going to court requires careful planning and ensuring you have all the necessary documents and items can make a big difference in presenting your case effectively. Here's a guide on what to bring to court if you're facing a drink driving charge in Queensland:

• Legal Representation: Before anything else, ensure you have legal representation. Having someone to advocate for you and guide you through the legal proceedings is crucial.

   Learn more with our article on Never Represent Yourself in Court for a traffic matter

• Notice to Appear: This is the document that formally notifies you of the charges against you and specifies the date, time, and location of your court appearance. Make sure to bring the original notice to appear with you in case the court can’t locate your paperwork.

• Identification: Bring a form of identification such as a driver's license or passport. Usually this wont be needed but better to have just in case.

• Your Drivers Licence: if you plead guilty to drink driving you are required to surrender your licence to Queensland Transport by the day after the court disqualifies you or to the Police Prosecutor at the court.

• Evidence of Mitigation: If there are mitigating factors that may have influenced your actions, such as a drinking problem , gather any evidence to show the steps you have taken to get help.

• Character References: Character references from employers, colleagues, friends, or family members can help portray you in a positive light to the court. These references should attest to your good character, responsibility, and remorse for the offense.

   Learn more with our article on Character References for Traffic Charges

• Proof of Completion of any Mandatory Programs: If you've already completed any mandatory programs such as a drink driving education program or a traffic offender intervention program, bring along the certificates or documentation as proof of completion. This demonstrates your willingness to address the issue and take steps towards rehabilitation.

   Learn more with our article on  Traffic Offender Programs

• Pen and Paper: It's always a good idea to bring a pen and paper to take notes during the proceedings or to jot down any important information provided by your legal representative or the court. This is especially true if you are seeking an adjournment and need to jot down the new court date.

• Dress Appropriately: While not a document, it's essential to dress appropriately for court. Opt for clean and conservative attire to show respect for the court proceedings and to present yourself in a favourable manner.

   Learn more with our article on What to wear to court

• Any Relevant Legal Documents: If you've consulted with your lawyer and they've provided you with any legal documents or advice, make sure to bring those along as well as any documents the police gave to you after your arrest like the paperwork immediately suspending your licence and your breathalyser test results. If you are going to be asking for no conviction to be recorded then you might need to bring evidence on this.

   Learn more with our article on How drink driving matters are heard in Queensland

• A way home: If you plead guilty your licence will be immediately disqualified and you will not be able to drive home.

   Learn more with our article on Do I really need to lose my licence for drink driving?

Remember, preparation is key when facing a drink driving charge in Queensland. By gathering all necessary documentation and being organized, you can present your case more effectively and increase the likelihood of a favourable outcome. Additionally, it's important to approach the proceedings with honesty, humility, and a willingness to take responsibility for your actions.

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We are a no pressure law firm, we are happy to provide information to assist you, if you want to engage us then great, if not then you at least have more information about drink driving.

You won’t be chased or hounded to engage us.  Remember its critical you get advice before going to court, a drink driving charge no matter the reading will have an impact on you, your family and your employment or business.