Criminal Defence
Impaired Driving and IRP Lawyers in Surrey
A roadside stop can turn your life upside down in minutes. If you are facing an IRP or an impaired driving charge, you deserve clear answers and quick, calm help.
If you were stopped at the roadside and handed a driving prohibition, or you have been charged with impaired driving, you are probably still in shock. Maybe you are wondering how you will get to work tomorrow, or what this means for your job, your family, and your future. Those worries are completely normal. You are not the first person to sit with this fear, and you do not have to figure out what comes next on your own.
In BC, there are two very different tracks. An Immediate Roadside Prohibition, or IRP, is issued on the spot after a roadside breath test. A fail result can mean a 90 day driving prohibition and your vehicle being impounded, all without any criminal charge being laid. A criminal impaired driving charge is a separate matter that goes through the courts and can carry a criminal record along with a driving prohibition. Some people face one, and some face both.
The most important thing to know about an IRP is how little time you have. You have only 7 days to apply for a review of the prohibition, and that window does not pause for weekends, holidays, or shock. If it passes, the prohibition usually stands. This is why we encourage people to reach out right away, even if they are not sure they want to challenge it. Knowing your options costs nothing, and waiting can quietly close doors.
Whatever you are facing, you are presumed innocent, and the Crown must prove any criminal charge beyond a reasonable doubt. A lawyer can review how the stop happened, how the testing was done, and whether your rights were respected, then explain your options in plain language. If you would like that kind of clarity, we offer a free, no obligation case evaluation. Everything you tell us stays confidential, and there is no pressure to go further than you want.
How we can help
Fast action on IRP reviews
The review window is only 7 days, so we move quickly to make sure your chance to challenge is never lost to delay.
Plain answers first
Before anything else, we explain what you are facing, how the process works, and what your realistic options actually are.
Careful review of the stop
We look closely at how the stop, the testing, and the paperwork were handled, because details matter in these cases.
Protecting your record
A criminal record can affect work, travel, and immigration status, so protecting yours is a priority in every decision we make.
Guidance on driving consequences
We help you understand prohibitions, vehicle impoundment, and what getting back on the road may involve for you.
Representation in court
If your matter goes to court, we prepare thoroughly and stand beside you at every appearance, start to finish.
Common questions
What is the difference between an IRP and a criminal charge?
An Immediate Roadside Prohibition is an administrative penalty issued at the roadside, separate from the criminal courts. A criminal impaired driving charge is prosecuted in court and can lead to a criminal record. It is possible to face one or both, and each has its own process and deadlines.
How long do I have to challenge an IRP?
The window is very short. You generally have only 7 days to apply for a review of an Immediate Roadside Prohibition, and that time passes quickly when you are stressed. If you are thinking about challenging it, reach out as soon as you can so nothing is missed.
Will I lose my licence?
It depends on what you are facing. An IRP fail can mean a 90 day driving prohibition issued on the spot, and a criminal conviction can carry its own driving prohibition. A lawyer can explain what applies to your situation and whether there are grounds to challenge it.
Do I have to answer police questions at a roadside stop?
You have the right to remain silent and the right to speak with a lawyer when you are arrested or detained, and you can call a lawyer before answering questions. Being polite is wise, but it is usually best to speak with counsel before explaining yourself.
Will this affect my job or my travel plans?
It can. A criminal record can affect employment, travel including entry to the United States, and immigration status. That is one of the biggest reasons to take even a first charge seriously. Tell us about your work and travel needs so we can factor them into your defence.
What does the first meeting cost?
Nothing. We offer a free, no obligation case evaluation where we listen to what happened, explain the process, and lay out your options. Everything you share is confidential. You can then decide, without any pressure, whether you want us to act for you.
Stopped at the roadside? The clock is already running
No pressure and no obligation. Just a clear conversation about where you stand and what comes next.