Don't Plead Guilty Until You Know Your Options. 

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You might be scared, or uncertain. And everything feels like it’s on the line.

That’s what a DUI charge does — it shakes your confidence and threatens your future.

Your licence. Your job. Your record.

But you’re not alone. And you’re not without options.

You only have a short window to protect your licence and fight your charges.
The sooner you act, the better your options.

👉 Before you make any decisions — talk to a DUI Lawyer who knows how to fight for you.

 

📞 Call Pat Atherton, an experienced Halifax DUI defence lawyer, at (902) 907-2045.

 

✅ Free, Confidential Consultation
✅ Honest, No-Pressure Legal Advice
✅ Proven DUI Defence Strategies That Work

👉 Book your free DUI consultation now

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You May Have More Options Than You Think

Many people facing DUI or drunk driving charges feel like there’s no way out.

You might be thinking:

“I failed the breath test — I’m guilty.”
“Maybe pleading guilty is the fastest way to move on.”
“Hiring a lawyer seems expensive.”

But here’s what you need to know:

Even if the evidence looks strong, the Crown must still prove every part of the case — and that’s often where charges fall apart.

Police must follow strict procedures. Machines must be properly maintained. Mistakes happen — and they’re not always obvious.

A skilled DUI lawyer in Halifax, knows where to find these issues.

What feels hopeless may not be hopeless at all once the evidence is reviewed properly.

👉 Before you give up, let us review your case. One free consultation could change everything — and costs you nothing.

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DUI, Over 80, Refusal — It All Comes Down to This

In Nova Scotia, DUI charges include:

• Impaired driving (alcohol or drugs)

• Driving Over 80 (BAC above 0.08)

• Refusal to provide a breath or blood sample

• Impaired driving causing injury or death

All of these are serious criminal charges in Canada.

Even a first offence can lead to:
❌ Licence suspension
❌ Criminal record
❌ Job loss
❌ Immigration or border issues

In some provinces like Alberta and BC, you may also face administrative penalties, such as:

• Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS)

• Immediate Roadside Prohibition (IRP)

These are separate from criminal charges — but just as serious.

✅ Many DUI cases can be successfully challenged — even if you blew over or refused.

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What You're Really Facing If Convicted

• A permanent criminal record

• Immediate licence suspension

• Thousands in fines and court costs

• Sky-high insurance for years

• Travel restrictions

• Job loss (especially for professional drivers)

• Jail time for repeat or serious offences

👉 You don’t have to face this alone — one call now can make all the difference.

📞 Call (902) 907-2045 for a free consultation today

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🔍 Real Case Example: The Officer’s Story Didn’t Hold Up

A man was charged with DUI after a minor accident in Nova Scotia.
The officer claimed he smelled alcohol and slurred his words.

But in court, the defence lawyer exposed inconsistencies between the officer’s notes and testimony.

The judge ruled the evidence unreliable — and the client was found not guilty.

A skilled Halifax DUI lawyer knows how to challenge weak evidence — even when the case seems stacked against you.

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💬 What People Say: I Thought I Had No Chance — I Was Wrong

“I thought I had no chance. I blew over and figured I’d lose my licence and end up with a record.
But my lawyer really listened, explained everything clearly, and found issues with how the police handled the case.
They fought for me — and the charge was dropped.
I still can’t believe it.”

A great DUI lawyer near me sees what others miss — and fights for outcomes you might not believe are possible.

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How Pat Atherton Builds Your DUI Defence

✅ Reviews disclosure for police errors
✅ Challenges test results
✅ Identifies Charter violations
✅ Scrutinizes the stop, arrest, and paperwork
✅ Negotiates with the Crown
✅ Fights for dismissal if the evidence is weak

👉 This isn’t about loopholes — it’s about protecting your future.

📞 Call (902) 907-2045 to get your case reviewed today.

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Ignition Interlock & Driving Restrictions

After a conviction, you may face:

• Mandatory ignition interlock

• Limited driving privileges

• Required treatment or education programs

• Ongoing court monitoring

These penalties can last long after a licence suspension ends.

👉 Before you plead guilty, get advice from an experienced DUI lawyer in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

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Pleading Guilty Too Soon Could Cost You Everything

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed.

But a quick guilty plea can lead to:

• A permanent criminal record

• Years of high insurance rates

• Travel bans

• Job loss

• Long-term financial consequences

👉 Don’t rush. Get legal advice first. One call could change everything.

📞 Call (902) 907-2045 now.

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✅ What To Do Next

✔ Stay calm — you're not alone
✔ Don't plead guilty — you may have defences
✔ Get legal advice — the sooner, the better

📞 Call Pat Atherton at (902) 907-2045 for a free consultation

 

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🔗 Want to Learn More?

Looking for deeper answers about DUI charges?

Visit our Impaired Driving Defence Page to see how DUI and impaired driving charges work — and what legal options may be available.

Worried about the long-term penalties?
Read our guide on DUI Penalties and see how charges can affect your record, licence, job, and travel.

Unsure whether you should plead guilty?
Our Never Plead Guilty Page explains why many people regret rushing into a guilty plea before getting full legal advice.

Wondering about the cost of hiring a DUI lawyer?
Check out our Legal Fees page — you may be surprised how manageable legal help can be.

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❓ FAQs — DUI Charges in Halifax, Nova Scotia

Q: Is DUI the same as impaired driving?
Yes. DUI, drunk driving, and impaired driving all refer to the same criminal offence in Canada.

Q: I failed the breath test. Can I still fight it?
Absolutely. Breath tests must follow strict procedures. Errors happen — and they can be challenged.

Q: What if I refused the breathalyzer?
Refusing to provide a sample is a criminal offence — but defences may still apply.

Q: Will I lose my licence right away?
Often, yes — especially with IRS or IRP programs. But there may be ways to challenge that suspension.

Q: Will I go to jail for a first offence?
Jail is rare for a first offence unless there are aggravating factors. Every case is different.

Q: What if I can’t afford a lawyer?
Start with a free consultation. Many lawyers offer flat fees or payment plans.

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Charged With DUI? You Don’t Have to Face This Alone

Your future matters. Take control today.

👉 Call Pat Atherton at (902) 907-2045 for a free consultation.