Facing an Impaired Driving Charge in Manitoba?

Police may investigate suspected impaired driving through roadside observations, standardized field sobriety testing and an approved screening device. The circumstances leading to the stop and the steps taken by police can be important when assessing impaired driving charges.

Depending on the circumstances, the prosecution may rely on breath samples, blood testing, observations of the driver, statements and other evidence. The reliability and collection of that evidence may need to be carefully examined by a criminal defence lawyer.

An impaired driving charge proceeds through the criminal court system. Depending on the circumstances, the matter may involve appearances before the court, disclosure, legal applications, negotiations and, where necessary, a trial in Winnipeg or elsewhere in Manitoba.

A criminal conviction may also create difficulties with employment, travel or entry into other countries. These issues can be particularly important for people whose work or personal circumstances require international travel.

For non-citizens, a criminal conviction can have immigration consequences, including issues with admissibility, permanent residence or citizenship. The impact depends on the offence, immigration status and individual circumstances.