ARRESTED FOR DUI IN RICHMOND HILL?
Being charged with a DUI in Richmond Hill is a serious legal matter. Whether it’s a first offence or a repeat charge, the consequences can be life-changing. All impaired driving charges in Richmond Hill fall under the federal Criminal Code, but the local court process, legal strategy, and resources make it crucial to hire a DUI lawyer with experience in the Richmond Hill area.
COMMON DUI CHARGES IN RICHMOND HILL
If you’re facing a DUI charge, it could involve any of the following offences:
Over 80 (BAC over 0.08%) – You can be charged if your breath sample shows 80 milligrams of alcohol or more per 100 milliliters of blood.
Impaired Operation – This is based on visible impairment from alcohol, drugs, or both. You can be convicted even if you’re under the legal limit if your ability to drive was affected.
Refusing a Breath Test – Failing or refusing to provide a sample when lawfully asked is a separate criminal offence.
Care or Control While Impaired – If you’re found in the driver’s seat of a parked or stopped vehicle while impaired, you can be charged under the “care or control” provision.
COURT PROCESS FOR DUI CHARGES IN RICHMOND HILL
After your arrest, you’ll likely be released with conditions, including:
A date for fingerprinting and photographs
A first court appearance at the Richmond Hill courthouse (Ontario Court of Justice)
Initial case management appearances may be handled remotely via Zoom, allowing your lawyer to appear without you being present in person.
DUI PENALTIES IN RICHMOND HILL
The penalties for a DUI conviction are severe and mandatory under the Criminal Code:
For First-Time Offenders:
Over 80 / Impaired: Minimum $1,000 fine + 12-month driving ban
Refusing a Breath Test: Minimum $2,000 fine + 12-month ban
Second DUI Offence:
At least 30 days in jail
Two-year driving prohibition
Third or More DUI Convictions:
Minimum 120 days in jail
Three-year license suspension
All fines also include a 30% victim surcharge.
OTHER LIFE-CHANGING IMPACTS OF A DUI:
Permanent criminal record
Increased insurance premiums or denial of coverage
Possible loss of job or future career opportunities
Ignition Interlock Device requirement
Mandatory “Back on Track” program to get your license back
CARE OR CONTROL DUI IN RICHMOND HILL
Even if you weren’t driving, you can still be charged. If you’re impaired and in the driver’s seat — or have the keys — you could be considered in care or control.
Canadian courts define this as any situation where there is a realistic risk the vehicle could be set in motion or pose danger. The Supreme Court has made it clear: risk matters more than intent.
HIRE A RICHMOND HILL DUI DEFENCE LAWYER
Andrew Captan, an experienced DUI defence lawyer, offers aggressive and personalized representation for DUI charges in Richmond Hill and the surrounding York Region.
What Andrew offers:
Direct contact with your lawyer (no paralegals or intermediaries)
Decade-long experience handling DUI charges in Ontario courts
Flexible payment options to work with your budget
📞 Call Andrew Captan now at (647) 878 – 6355 to schedule a confidential consultation.
