What happens at court if I admit the charge?

• Before you attend court it is important to have obtained references from people who know what you are normally like and who can attest to your good character or any unusual circumstances surrounding the offence.
• If you have difficulty with public speaking you may wish to write a letter addressed to the magistrate explaining your actions on the day of the offence.
• The court must look at all circumstances surrounding the offence before it determines a penalty. The circumstances include:
  • your blood alcohol reading;
  • any particular reason why you chose to drive;
  • why you were stopped – was it a random breath test or were you involved in an accident;
  • whether the offence involved speeding or seriously bad driving and
  • whether the public was put at risk because of your actions.
• The court is aware of the far-reaching effects of license disqualification. Any significant effect this may have on you, your employment or other people who rely on you such as an ill family member should be mentioned to the court.
• Your employment may depend upon a licence. However this does not automatically mean you will keep your licence.
• Your income is also a relevant feature in assessing the amount of the fine.