Video chapters
Quick answer
Drink-driving legal fees vary by state, charge, reading, plea, traffic history, licence consequences and whether facts or testing are disputed. Ask for a written quote covering preparation, court appearances, disbursements and any licence application rather than relying on a headline figure.
What to do
- Gather — Charge, reading, notice, history and court date
- Assess — Plea, available challenge and licence consequence
- Quote — Preparation, appearance, reports and exclusions
- Prepare — Follow tailored advice on references and courses
Transcript
A drink-driving lawyer's cost depends on the jurisdiction, alleged alcohol test result, traffic history, licence consequences and whether you admit or contest the charge. A prepared guilty plea is different from a contested hearing involving device records, police procedure, expert evidence or multiple witnesses.
A complete quote may cover reviewing police material, explaining penalty and disqualification ranges, advising on plea, preparing subjective material, conferences, negotiations, written submissions and appearance. Barrister, expert, travel, subpoena and report costs may be separate.
Provide the court attendance notice or summons, police summary, test certificate, suspension notice, bail papers and traffic history. Explain prior offences, work and caring needs, and any interstate licence issue. Do not drive unless you are legally entitled to do so.
Ask how many conferences and appearances are included, whether adjournments cost extra, what preparation you must do, who will appear, and what triggers a new estimate. Confirm whether any appeal, work-licence or restricted-licence process is included and available in your state.
Go To Court offers a sixty-minute consultation for two hundred ninety-five dollars. It can arrange drink-driving representation where a suitable lawyer is available. Bring every police and licence document to the conference. The contact details are on your screen.
Sources and further help
Sources checked 3 September 2026.
Important
This video provides general information about drink-driving offences, licence consequences and legal costs in Australia. It is not legal advice and does not take account of your circumstances. Laws, procedures, fees and time limits can change, and state or territory rules may apply. Get advice from a qualified lawyer about your situation.