Calgary Impaired Driving Lawyer

Why Choose Our Impaired Driving Lawyer In Calgary?

Your Go-To Lawyer for Impaired Driving Defense

When it comes to defending against impaired driving charges, you need an impaired driving lawyer who not only understands the law but also knows how to navigate the intricacies of the legal system. Here’s why Akram Law is the best choice for your case:

Technical Expertise in DUI and Impaired Driving Cases

At Akram Law, we pride ourselves on our in-depth knowledge of DUI and impaired driving laws. Khalid Akram’s extensive experience in handling these cases ensures that every detail of your situation is meticulously examined. From challenging the accuracy of breathalyzer tests to scrutinizing the procedures followed by law enforcement, our technical expertise allows us to identify and exploit weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Strategic Defense Approach

Impaired driving cases are often won or lost based on the strategy employed by your Calgary impaired driving lawyer. Khalid Akram employs a strategic defense approach tailored to the specifics of your case. This includes:

Personalized Service Tailored to Individual Cases

Every impaired driving case is unique, and at Akram Law, our Calgary DUI lawyer is providing personalized legal services that address the specific circumstances of your case.

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Defense Strategies Employed by Our Impaired Driving Lawyer

Questioning the Reliability of the Breathalyzer

Technical Challenges to Breathalyzer Accuracy: Breathalyzer devices can be prone to errors if not properly maintained and calibrated. At Akram Law, we examine the device’s maintenance records and challenge the accuracy of the results.

Importance of Proper Operation and Maintenance of Breathalyzer Devices: Ensuring that the breathalyzer was operated correctly and maintained according to manufacturer specifications is crucial. Any deviation from standard procedures can cast doubt on the validity of the results.

Analyzing Varying Blood Alcohol Levels

Blood alcohol content (BAC) can fluctuate over time. We analyze whether your BAC at the time of driving was below the legal limit, despite later tests showing higher levels.  

Challenging Observations of Impairment

Police observations of impairment, such as poor balance, slurred speech, or red eyes, can have alternative explanations. We rigorously cross-examine these observations to identify inconsistencies or alternative causes (e.g., medical conditions, environmental factors).

Employing Refusal or Failure Defenses

Some individuals may be physically unable to provide an adequate breath sample due to medical conditions such as asthma or anxiety. We present evidence of these conditions to explain any failure or refusal to provide a sample.

What You Need to Know

Explanation of Different Terminologies

Impaired Driving: Operating a vehicle while one’s ability to do so is compromised by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both.

Drinking and Driving: A general term often used interchangeably with impaired driving, though it specifically refers to alcohol consumption.

DUI (Driving Under the Influence): A legal term referring to driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs, encompassing both alcohol-related and drug-related impairment.

Over 80 Blood Alcohol Content: A specific legal threshold where a driver’s BAC exceeds 80 milligrams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood.

Refusal to Blow: Refusing to provide a breath sample when requested by law enforcement is itself a criminal offense. This charge carries significant penalties, similar to those for impaired driving or over 80 BAC, because it obstructs the law enforcement process.

Common Scenarios

Often, those charged with impaired driving offenses are ordinary citizens who did not feel or act drunk at the time. Many believe they were not impaired, yet still provided breath samples that exceeded the legal limit. This can happen due to factors like:

Alcohol absorption rates

Misjudgment of one’s level of impairment

Faulty or improperly calibrated breathalyzer devices

Statistics

We have analyzed the statistical trends of impaired driving in Calgary. According to the Calgary Police Service, impaired driving continues to be a significant problem in the city. In 2023, there were 1,432 impaired driving incidents, which is a slight increase from the previous year. Additionally, impaired driving is a leading cause of fatal collisions in Calgary, accounting for 25% of all traffic fatalities.

Implications of Impaired Driving Charges in Calgary

Immediate Suspension of Driver’s License upon Being Charged

In Calgary, if you are charged with impaired driving, your driver’s license is immediately suspended. This administrative penalty is part of Alberta’s Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS) program, which enforces swift consequences to enhance public safety. Potential consequences of conviction:

1-Year License Suspension and Driving Prohibition:

A DUI conviction results in a minimum 1-year suspension of your driver’s license, during which you are prohibited from driving anywhere in Canada. This can severely disrupt daily life, including commuting to work or managing personal responsibilities.

Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device:

Post-conviction, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. This device prevents your car from starting unless you pass a breathalyzer test, ensuring that you do not drive under the influence again.

Permanent Criminal Record:

A DUI conviction results in a permanent criminal record. This record can affect various aspects of your life, including employment opportunities, as many employers conduct background checks.

Registration in the Canadian Police Information System:

Your name and criminal record will be registered in the Canadian Police Information System (CPIC).  

Impact on Employment, Travel, and Social Stigma:

A criminal record for impaired driving can result in lost employment opportunities, particularly in jobs that require driving.

Immediate Roadside Sanctions

Alberta’s Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS) Program

Alberta’s Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS) program, introduced in 2020, is a strict enforcement measure aimed at reducing impaired driving incidents. Under this program, drivers who are suspected of impaired driving face immediate administrative penalties without waiting for a court conviction. This approach enhances road safety by promptly removing impaired drivers from the road.

Importance of Filing an Appeal within 7 Days of Charges

If you are charged under the IRS program, it is crucial to act quickly. You have only seven days from the date of the charge to file an appeal against the sanctions. Failing to do so can result in automatic penalties, including a prolonged license suspension and fines.

Potential Penalties

15-Month License Suspension:

Your driver’s license can be suspended for a minimum of 15 months, significantly impacting your ability to commute and perform daily tasks.

Minimum $1000 Fine:

You will face a minimum fine of $1000, adding a financial burden to the legal and administrative challenges.

Assistance Provided by Akram Law in Filing Appeals

At Akram Law, we understand the urgency and complexity of filing an appeal under the IRS program. Our experienced legal team can guide you through the process, ensuring that all necessary documentation is prepared and submitted promptly.

How Akram Law Can Help

Description of Services Provided by Akram Law

Akram Law offers comprehensive legal services for individuals facing impaired driving charges. Our services include:

Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation: Assessing the details of your case and providing expert legal advice.

Evidence Analysis: Scrutinizing breathalyzer results, police reports, and other evidence.

Defense Strategy Development: Crafting a tailored defense strategy to challenge the charges.

Representation in Court: Providing skilled representation throughout the legal process.

Appeals Assistance: Helping you file appeals against immediate roadside sanctions and other penalties.

Importance of Quick Legal Intervention

Acting quickly is essential in impaired driving cases. Immediate legal intervention can help preserve crucial evidence, secure witness testimonies, and file necessary appeals within the required timelines. Prompt action can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.