Facing impaired driving or Immediate Roadside Prohibition (IRP) charges can be a stressful experience. Navigating the legal process in Kelowna requires understanding local practices and laws. At Sarah Leamon Law, we are dedicated to guiding you through this challenging time.
Working with an experienced lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome. Trust Sarah Leamon Law to provide you with comprehensive representation and guidance throughout your case. Depending on your charges, you may be required to appear in court at the Provincial Courthouse at 1355 Water St, Kelowna.
What do I need to understand about IRPs and DUIs in Kelowna?
While IRPs and DUIs might appear similar, they diverge in areas such as lasting records, the ability to challenge the charges, and the type of proof the police need.
What is impaired driving / DUI?
DUI, or impaired driving, involves driving a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Being found guilty can result in significant consequences, including a lifelong criminal record. This is a federal crime. Recognizing the gravity of these accusations and how they can shape your future is essential.
What is an Immediate Roadside Prohibition?
In BC, an IRP (immediate roadside prohibition) is given to individuals suspected of impaired driving. It’s not classified as a criminal act, but consequences like driving bans are immediate. This is administered by the Province.
The guidelines for IRPs are strict. Once you’re issued an IRP, contesting within the short timelines becomes challenging. For IRPs, the police can obtain evidence with more ease than for federal offences, and individuals typically have fewer rights and limited time to counter IRP charges.
Client Testimonials
Read more reviews from past clients:
Google Reviews or Lawyer Ratingz
Dealing with the Sarah Leamon Law Group was an absolute pleasure. They were friendly and efficient in communicating with me, and dealt with my case in a timely manner. They were thorough and meticulous in putting together a strong case that resulted in a WIN. Highly recommend their services.
K.R., Google Review
Sarah Leamon is amazing! She got back to me right away even though she was out of office! She not only jumped on my file quickly, she also got my prohibition reduced from 7 Months to 3 Months a BIG win in my eyes!!
Lawyer Ratingz Review
From my initial contact with Sarah, providing me with detailed information on next steps, to answering all my questions throughout the process and the representation (thank you, Hyemin!), the service offered by Sarah Leamon Law Group was top notch. Would highly recommend.
S.S., Google Review
Hyemin at Sarah leamon law group is a very respectful, kind, and bright lady. Their team was thorough with my case making the process less worrisome. Would recommend 10/10.
M., Google Review
Have had Sarah as my go-to for any and all my traffic issues. She is very compassionate and is excellent at explaining every part of the process and keeping your stress level way down. Multiple times ive hired Sarah and i am always completely confident she will get the best result, as she has done time and time again. wouldn't go anywhere else, definitely #1 in my eyes!
M.W., Google Review
Dealing with the Sarah Leamon Law Group was an absolute pleasure. They were friendly and efficient in communicating with me, and dealt with my case in a timely manner. They were thorough and meticulous in putting together a strong case that resulted in a WIN. Highly recommend their services.
K.R., Google Review
Sarah Leamon is amazing! She got back to me right away even though she was out of office! She not only jumped on my file quickly, she also got my prohibition reduced from 7 Months to 3 Months a BIG win in my eyes!!
Lawyer Ratingz Review
From my initial contact with Sarah, providing me with detailed information on next steps, to answering all my questions throughout the process and the representation (thank you, Hyemin!), the service offered by Sarah Leamon Law Group was top notch. Would highly recommend.
S.S., Google Review
Hyemin at Sarah leamon law group is a very respectful, kind, and bright lady. Their team was thorough with my case making the process less worrisome. Would recommend 10/10.
M., Google Review
Have had Sarah as my go-to for any and all my traffic issues. She is very compassionate and is excellent at explaining every part of the process and keeping your stress level way down. Multiple times ive hired Sarah and i am always completely confident she will get the best result, as she has done time and time again. wouldn't go anywhere else, definitely #1 in my eyes!
M.W., Google Review
Dealing with the Sarah Leamon Law Group was an absolute pleasure. They were friendly and efficient in communicating with me, and dealt with my case in a timely manner. They were thorough and meticulous in putting together a strong case that resulted in a WIN. Highly recommend their services.
K.R., Google Review
Sarah Leamon is amazing! She got back to me right away even though she was out of office! She not only jumped on my file quickly, she also got my prohibition reduced from 7 Months to 3 Months a BIG win in my eyes!!
Lawyer Ratingz Review
From my initial contact with Sarah, providing me with detailed information on next steps, to answering all my questions throughout the process and the representation (thank you, Hyemin!), the service offered by Sarah Leamon Law Group was top notch. Would highly recommend.
S.S., Google Review
Hyemin at Sarah leamon law group is a very respectful, kind, and bright lady. Their team was thorough with my case making the process less worrisome. Would recommend 10/10.
M., Google Review
Have had Sarah as my go-to for any and all my traffic issues. She is very compassionate and is excellent at explaining every part of the process and keeping your stress level way down. Multiple times ive hired Sarah and i am always completely confident she will get the best result, as she has done time and time again. wouldn't go anywhere else, definitely #1 in my eyes!
M.W., Google Review
What are the consequences of an Immediate Roadside Prohibition?
If you get an IRP notice, there are six major consequences:
- You may lose your driving rights for up to 90 days.
- You’ll face fines.
- Your car could be impounded.
- ICBC might give you extra driving bans.
- You could be asked to attend certain programs.
- An ‘ignition interlock’ device might be installed in your car, which checks if you’ve consumed alcohol before you drive.
What other driving offences could Sarah Leamon Law help me with?
Sarah Leamon Law has an excellent reputation for defending clients across BC contesting their driving charges. Some most common charges we fight are:
- 90 Day Prohibition: Assisting clients who face a 90-day driving prohibition.
- Dangerous Driving: Defending those accused of driving recklessly or in a manner that poses a threat to others.
- Driving At or Over 0.05 BAC (blood alcohol concentration): Representing individuals charged with driving with a BAC of 0.05 or higher.
- Driving at or Over 0.08 BAC: Advocating for clients who are accused of driving with a BAC of 0.08 or more.
- Driving Prohibition Letter: Assisting clients who have received a letter indicating a driving prohibition.
- Driving While Prohibited: Defending individuals who are charged with driving despite a prohibition.
- Notice of Intent to Prohibit: Offering legal counsel to those who have received a notice indicating an intention to prohibit them from driving.
- Violation Tickets: Representing clients who have received tickets for various driving violations.
How can a Kelowna IRP Lawyer help my case?
Facing a driving-related offences charge can be overwhelming. With Sarah Leamon Law by your side, you can feel more at ease, knowing that a dedicated team is ready to work for your best interests.
Understanding Your Charge’s Basis
Our first approach often involves examining the initial traffic stop. If law enforcement did not have a justifiable reason for stopping you, evidence gathered during this interaction may be contestable.
Breathalyzer Test Reliability
Breathalyzer devices require careful handling and correct calibration. If the test was improperly administered or the device was not correctly maintained, the results might be challenged.
Sarah Leamon Law has over a decade of successfully challenging incorrectly administered breathalyzer tests.
Your Rights to a Lawyer
Being able to talk to a lawyer promptly after an arrest is a Charter Right in Canada. If this right was not honoured, we could challenge the charges based on this infringement.
Considering Plea Negotiations
In some situations, negotiating a plea can be a viable option. This only is possible with a DUI. It means admitting to a lesser charge and, in return, possibly receiving milder consequences. Plea discussions do not occur with IRPs. The penalties are stated as they are.
Contact us today for a free consultation
Facing legal challenges can feel like a heavy load. You don’t have to carry it alone. At Sarah Leamon Law, our team is here to guide and stand up for your rights. Let us be your trusted ally in these times; reach out to us today for a free consultation.