The prosecution must prove that your driving ability was impaired at the time of driving due to the presence of an illegal substance.
Driving whilst impaired through drugs
The difficulty for the prosecution is establishing what level of drugs can be in a person’s system before they become impaired.
Expert Motoring Offences Solicitors
At GT Stewart Solicitors & Advocates, we understand that being charged with a motoring offence can be stressful, disruptive, and carry serious consequences. From speeding and driving without insurance to more serious allegations such as dangerous driving or driving under the influence, our specialist motoring offences team provides expert advice and representation at every stage of the process.
We guide our clients through police investigations, court proceedings, and potential licence or penalty issues, ensuring that all legal options are carefully considered. Our approach combines practical solutions with a strategic focus on protecting your driving record, liberty, and future.
Whether you are facing a single motoring charge or complex, multiple allegations, our solicitors act quickly to provide clear advice, robust representation, and support tailored to your circumstances.
Experienced Motoring Offences Lawyers
Our specialist motoring offences team has extensive experience representing clients facing a wide range of road traffic matters, from speeding, careless or dangerous driving, to more serious allegations such as driving under the influence or driving without insurance. We provide clear advice and representation at every stage, including police investigations, court proceedings, and licence-related matters.
We can help dramatically improve your chances of being found not guilty or avoiding disqualification. Email GT Stewart at [email protected] to speak with a member of our specialist motoring law team, or use our online enquiry form. We will respond at a time and date convenient to you, ensuring that you receive prompt, personalised advice tailored to your case.
Driving whilst Impaired through Drugs
Initially, the police will carry out a FIT test (Field Impairment Test) at the roadside to determine your level of impairment (if any). The officer carrying out the test must refer to standard guidelines and procedures for testing and will make observations in relation to the following:
- The size of your pupils (The Pupil Measure Test);
- Your balance and judgement (The Romberg Test);
- The Walk and Turn test;
- The one leg standard test; and
- The finger to nose test
If the officer decides that you have failed the test you will be required to provide a specimen of blood (or urine) at the police station. The police must offer you a sample of blood to take away with you from the police station. We would recommend that you arrange to have your sample tested as soon as possible. If you do not consent, you will be charged with an offence of failing to provide a specimen, unless you have a reasonable excuse such as a fear of needles.
It is not enough for the prosecution to prove that there was a drug present in your system, they must also prove that you were unfit through drugs. This is something that we are able to challenge on your behalf given the number of different factors which can influence the results of the FIT test. Contact GT Stewart at [email protected] in order to get urgent specialist legal advice.
Driving with Excess Drugs
The difficulties of successfully prosecuting a driver for driving whilst impaired through drugs forced new legislation to be introduced in 2015 by introducing specified legal limits for both legal and illegal drugs in order to measure an accepted level of usage before driving. The prosecution now have to establish that you were driving and the proportion of a specified drug measured in your blood is found to be over the prescribed limit.
The new legislation set limits for 17 ‘controlled drugs, some of which are used for widespread medicinal purposes (8) and those which are not with amphetamine being categorised separately.
| Controlled Drug | Limit (micrograms per litre of blood) |
|---|---|
| Benzoylecgonine | 50 |
| Clonazepam | 50 |
| Cocaine | 10 |
| Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (cannabis) | 2 |
| Diazepam | 550 |
| Flunitrazepam | 300 |
| Ketamine | 20 |
| Lorazepam | 100 |
| Lysergic Acid Diethylamide | 1 |
| Methadone | 500 |
| Methylamphetamine | 10 |
| 6-Monoacetylmorphine | 5 |
| Morphine | 80 |
| Oxazepam | 300 |
| Temazepam | 1000 |
| Amphetamine | 250 |
Our Services
At GT Stewart Solicitors, our specialist motoring offences team provides clear, practical advice across the full range of road traffic matters. Whether you are facing a speeding allegation, a drink or drug driving charge, or a more serious offence such as dangerous driving, early legal advice can make a significant difference to the outcome of your case.
We understand that for many clients, their driving licence is essential for work, family responsibilities, and day-to-day life. Allegations can carry penalty points, fines, disqualification, or even imprisonment. Our experienced lawyers will assess the evidence, advise you on your options, and build a strong defence where appropriate.
Below you will find guidance on the most common motoring offences we deal with, together with practical information about the legal process and how we can help protect your licence and your livelihood.
Click on the images below to read detailed advice on each motoring offence.
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Parking fines and offences
Why choose GT Stewart?
“We will do all the law permits to keep you on the road”
GT Stewart have a proven track record of success with defending driving offences and know exactly how to prepare an effective defence in order to give you the best chance of winning your case.
Our Expert Lawyers are ready to Help
GT Stewart has established itself as a leading firm in the UK, specialising in both private cases and also Legal Aid work.
Meet some of our Criminal Defence team
Speak to one of our Motoring Offences Solicitors
Our Tenacity Results in Success
We represented an appellant whose conviction was referred to the Court of Appeal by the CCRC on the basis that there was no jurisdiction to hear one of the counts, as it involved alleged conduct committed outside the UK.
By | May 27, 2026
Partner and Head of Youth Crime, Mel Stooks, recently featured alongside Angus Jones from HM Inspectorate of Prisons on the latest Transform Justice podcast episode, “Do the children on remand need to be there?”, which is now live.
By | May 27, 2026
We represented a client in proceedings where the prosecution sought to invoke the “slip rule” under section 385 of the Sentencing Act 2020.
By | May 21, 2026
Client Testimonials
“Solicitor Harry Charalambous, my incredible paralegal Louise Abiodun, and the exceptional team of barristers who stood beside me throughout my Crown Court case. Because of their unwavering commitment, extraordinary professionalism, and tireless hard work, I was found Not Guilty — a moment that has changed my life forever. During one of the darkest and most frightening periods of my life, they became a source of strength, reassurance, and hope. From the very beginning, Louise Abiodun showed immense compassion, patience, and dedication, always making sure I felt supported and informed throughout the entire process. Her kindness and constant reassurance meant more to me and my family than words can describe. Harry Charalambous demonstrated exceptional expertise, determination, and confidence in handling my case, while the barristers fought passionately and fearlessly for justice in court. Their preparation, attention to detail, and belief in me gave my family hope when we needed it most. Watching this remarkable team work with such integrity and commitment filled my parents and me with immense respect and admiration. The relief, happiness, and peace we felt after hearing the Not Guilty verdict is something we will never forget, and it simply would not have been possible without them. People like Harry Charalambous, Louise Abiodun, and their team do far more than simply practise law — they change lives, protect the innocent, and restore faith during the most difficult moments imaginable. The work they do is truly noble and deserves the highest praise. My family and I will remain eternally grateful for everything they have done for us. I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone seeking outstanding legal representation. Truly exceptional professionals and even better human beings.”
“I’m very happy with McGrath & co solicitors (part of GT Stewart) excellent, professional service. I’m satisfied about my case. Thank you so much Mr Dirghayu Patel and Alisha Lumsden.”
“Fantastic service from Dirghayu Patel regarding my housing situation with the council. Highly recommend this firm.”
“A chance meeting led us to the best solicitors we could have hoped for. Their professionalism and kindness helped me and my family overcome this difficult time and cope with the many setbacks. So grateful for their unbiased support. Special thanks to Melanie Krudy and Kate Nichol.”
“Excellent work by Morgan Luchinski. Back in 2024 I was wrongly arrested and the officer in charge has been a right pain in the backside, but from day one until now (nearly 2 years) my legal representative Morgan luchinski has gone above and beyond to put this office inline and not allow him to fabricate laws in his favour. Having this all done on legal aid was amazing and I just wish I could thank Morgan somehow as she has helped put my mind to rest after the games played by this office. I will be highly recommending Morgan for any legal work needed to everyone I know. She is an asset to GT Stewart.”