Losing your drivers licence can lead to significant disruptions in your daily life, potentially impacting your employment and causing stress for your family.
Navigating the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (TORUM), which governs most traffic offences, can be a complex task.
This legislation often involves mandatory sentencing, with the nature of the offence and the person’s driving history determining the period of licence disqualification. Many offences mandate specific disqualification periods.
At McConnell & Saldumbide Criminal Lawyers, we provide specialised expertise in traffic law matters, ensuring that you understand your position and the implications for your licence. We can advise you on your eligibility for a work or special hardship licence, prepare the necessary applications and materials, and represent your interests robustly to achieve the best possible outcome. If a licence disqualification is inevitable, we strive to negotiate and advocate for the shortest possible disqualification period.
We handle a wide range of traffic offences, including but not limited to:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Driving above the general or middle alcohol limit
- Driving above the no alcohol limit
- Driving with relevant drug present in blood or saliva
- Driving while disqualified by a Court order
- Driving unlicensed (including as a repeat offender)
- Driving while demerit point suspended
- Driving while SPER suspended
- Driving without due care and attention
- Speeding
- Traffic infringement notices
We also assist with applications for:
- Restricted (work) licences;
- Special hardship licences; and
- Licence reinstatements
If you are facing a traffic offence, we recommend securing our services to guide you through this intricate process. Our priority is providing you with clear and comprehensive advice, ensuring the strongest defence, so as to reduce the potential impact on your life. mission is to ensure that you receive comprehensive, clear advice and a strong defence, reducing the potential impact on your life.
Our goal is to provide legal guidance that is both comprehensive and customised to the unique circumstances of each case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What services do Traffic Lawyers in Toowoomba provide?
Traffic Lawyers in Toowoomba provide legal assistance for a range of traffic offences. This includes drink driving, speeding, reckless driving, driving without a licence or insurance, and more. They can represent you in court, negotiate with prosecutors, and work to minimise the impact of the charges on your driving record and lifestyle.
Why should I hire a Traffic Lawyer in Toowoomba if I've been charged with a traffic offence?
Traffic offences can carry serious penalties, including fines, demerit points, licence suspension, and even jail time in severe cases. A Traffic Lawyer can help you understand the charges against you, advise on the best course of action, and represent you in court to ensure your rights are protected.
Can McConnell & Saldumbide help with licence appeals?
Yes, McConnell & Saldumbide can assist with licence appeals. If your licence has been suspended or disqualified, they can help you appeal the decision and work towards getting your driving privileges reinstated.
What should I look for when choosing a Traffic Lawyer in Toowoomba?
When choosing a Traffic Lawyer, consider their experience with traffic law, their track record with similar cases, their understanding of local court procedures, and their communication skills. It’s important to choose a lawyer you feel comfortable with and who can explain complex legal concepts in a way you understand.
How much does it cost to hire a Traffic Lawyer in Toowoomba?
The cost to hire a Traffic Lawyer in Toowoomba can vary depending on the complexity of your case, the lawyer’s experience, and the amount of time required. It’s best to discuss fees upfront during your initial consultation to avoid any surprises later on.
I’ve been charged with drink driving, can I still keep my licence?
Possibly. Depending on your blood alcohol level, prior history, and work-related need to drive, you may be eligible for a restricted work licence. We’ll assess your eligibility, prepare the necessary application, and advocate for you in court. Early legal advice improves your chances of keeping your job and reducing disruption to your life.
Can I apply for a special hardship licence if I’ve lost too many demerit points?
Yes, in some cases. If your licence is suspended due to excessive demerit points or a high-speed offence, you may be eligible for a special hardship order, particularly if losing your licence would severely impact your ability to work or care for others. We handle the application process and represent you in court.
Will I lose my licence if I’m convicted of a traffic offence?
Many traffic offences under Queensland’s TORUM legislation carry mandatory disqualification periods. The outcome depends on the nature of the offence and your driving history. We’ll review your situation, provide clear advice, and seek to minimise disqualification wherever possible through strategic negotiation or advocacy.
Is it worth hiring a lawyer for a traffic offence?
Absolutely. While some traffic matters seem minor, their consequences can be far-reaching, affecting your job, insurance, and even resulting in a criminal record. We ensure you understand your rights, avoid preventable mistakes, and pursue the best possible outcome, whether through negotiation, sentencing submissions, or contesting the charge.
Can you help with unlicensed or suspended driving charges?
Yes. Driving while disqualified, or while suspended due to SPER or demerit points, can lead to serious penalties, including fines, extended disqualifications, or even imprisonment in repeat cases. We’ll advise you of the risks, possible defences, and how best to present your case.
I missed a court date for a traffic offence, what should I do?
Contact us immediately. Failing to appear can result in a warrant being issued or the matter being finalised in your absence. We can advise you on how to resolve the situation, whether that involves applying to have the matter reopened or addressing any enforcement action taken by the court.
What are your fees for traffic matters?
For many traffic matters, we offer fixed fees, so you know the cost upfront. More complex cases may require tailored pricing. We’re committed to providing clear and fair fee structures, and we’ll explain all options during your free initial consultation.
My teenager has been charged with a traffic offence, can I speak to you on their behalf?
Yes. We frequently speak with concerned parents or guardians. While your child’s instructions will ultimately guide our representation, we’re happy to walk you through the process, the possible consequences, and how we can help minimise long-term impact on their future.
What makes McConnell & Saldumbide different from other traffic lawyers in Toowoomba?
We approach every matter with diligence, discretion, and client-first thinking. Our local expertise in the Toowoomba courts, combined with city-level strategy and communication, ensures your case receives the focus it deserves. We’re not a high-volume firm, we prioritise results over throughput.
