At Sarah Leamon Law, we understand the intricacies of Immediate Roadside Prohibition (IRP) and impaired driving, sometimes referred to as Driving Under the Influence (DUI). Our primary goal is to ensure that our clients’ rights are protected and that their driving records remain unblemished. We represent our Prince George clients at the Provincial Court located on 250 George Street.
Understanding IRP vs. Impaired Driving Laws
In Prince George and the greater British Columbia area, drivers are governed by two distinct legal frameworks:
- Provincial Laws: This is not a criminal charge, but its implications are immediate. The penalties under this regime are swift and can be challenging to contest. The evidence collection process for the police is more straightforward, and individuals have limited rights during IRP cases.
- Federal Criminal Code: This pertains to criminal charges related to impaired driving. The consequences of being convicted under this regime are severe and can lead to a permanent criminal record.
Key Differences Between IRP and Impaired Driving Laws
- Duration of Consequences: While IRP penalties are immediate, they might not lead to a criminal record. On the other hand, impaired driving charges can result in long-term implications, including a criminal record.
- Rights of the Accused: In IRP cases, individuals have limited rights, making these cases particularly challenging to dispute.
The Immediate Aftermath of an IRP
The repercussions of receiving an IRP are contingent on the alleged Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) and one’s previous driving history. Penalties can range from:
- Driving prohibitions lasting between 24 hours to 90 days.
- Monetary fines.
- Potential vehicle impoundment, with the individual bearing storage costs.
- Additional driving prohibitions imposed by ICBC.
- Mandatory attendance at specific programs, often at the individual’s expense.
- Installation of an “ignition interlock” system in the vehicle, which requires testing into a breathalyzer each time the car is started.
Given the extensive and lasting consequences of an IRP, it’s crucial to approach these situations with a seasoned lawyer by your side.
Contesting an IRP: The Process
Yes, it’s possible to challenge an IRP in the Prince George Provincial Court (located at 250 George Street). However, the window is narrow. Individuals have 7 days to submit their ‘Application for Review’ to ICBC. This application is pivotal and must be error-free to ensure a fair chance at contesting the prohibition.
Sarah Leamon Law recommends seeking legal counsel before completing the review application. Our team can:
- Assist in filling out the application correctly.
- Identify potential defences.
- Decide on the type of hearing (oral or written) that would be most beneficial.
- Schedule a suitable date for your hearing.
A successful IRP review hearing can lead to the immediate reinstatement of your driver’s license and vehicle. Additionally, there’s an option to request a postponement of the prohibition until the hearing date.
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
Expanding Our Services: More Than Just IRP
At Sarah Leamon Law, we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of services to cater to the diverse needs of our clients in Prince George. Beyond IRP, our experience extends to:
- 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: 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.
Why Choose Sarah Leamon Law?
Our team at Sarah Leamon Law is renowned for its meticulous approach. We rigorously review police processes and evidence, searching for discrepancies, errors, and inconsistencies. Many defences are rooted in procedural nuances, and our extensive experience ensures that no stone is left unturned.
With our unparalleled knowledge and commitment, we stand ready to defend your rights and safeguard your driving record. Reach out to us today to discuss your situation and explore your options with a seasoned lawyer.