Boorman Lawyers Gold Coast DUI Lawyers

Professional Guide: Middle Range DUI Defence in Queensland

Watch our expert analysis of middle range drink driving charges and effective defence strategies

Expert legal guidance for middle range DUI charges and penalty minimisation strategies
Serious Penalties
Understanding the consequences
Expert Defence
Professional representation
Penalty Reduction
Minimise consequences
Serious Consequences

Middle range drink driving carries significantly harsher penalties than low range, including longer disqualification periods, higher fines, and potential imprisonment. Immediate legal representation is crucial.

What Is a Middle Range DUI in Queensland?

A middle range DUI (also referred to as mid-range PCA) occurs when a driver returns a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) between 0.100 and 0.149. This offence sits between low and high range DUI and carries more severe penalties — especially for repeat offenders.

Middle range DUI charges are dealt with under section 79 of the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (QLD). These charges are serious and cannot be dismissed with just a warning — court attendance is mandatory.

We regularly represent clients at Southport, Coolangatta, and other Gold Coast courts who are facing mid-range drink driving offences.

What Are the Penalties for Middle Range DUI in QLD?

The penalties for mid-range DUI vary based on whether it's your first offence or not, and other case circumstances. Penalties may include:

  • Licence disqualification (3 to 12 months minimum for first offence)
  • Fines (up to $3,338)
  • Criminal conviction
  • Alcohol Interlock Order (mandatory in most mid-range cases)
  • Imprisonment (only for serious or repeat offenders)

Our goal is to minimise these penalties, help protect your licence, and if eligible, help you apply for a work licence.

Am I Eligible for a Work Licence?

Yes — many drivers charged with a mid-range DUI can still apply for a restricted work licence. This is particularly important if losing your licence would affect your employment or ability to support your family.

To qualify, you must:

  • Hold an open QLD licence at the time of the offence
  • Not have any disqualifying offences in the past 5 years
  • Not have been driving for work when charged
  • Show severe financial or personal hardship

We handle every aspect of the application, including drafting your affidavit, helping you obtain an employer letter, and representing you in court.

What Will the Court Consider?

When sentencing for a mid-range DUI, magistrates often take into account:

  • Your traffic history and criminal record
  • Whether you cooperated with police
  • The reason you were driving
  • Whether an accident or dangerous behaviour was involved
  • Whether you have taken steps to rehabilitate (e.g. completing a traffic offenders program)
Helpful resource

Apology Letter & Court Prep Tools

We can help prepare documents that show the court you take the matter seriously and deserve leniency.

Local Courts We Appear In

Our lawyers frequently attend:

  • Southport Magistrates Court
  • Coolangatta Magistrates Court
  • All Courts in South-East Queensland and beyond

We're familiar with the local judicial expectations, which gives you a strategic edge in court.

Find location-specific info

Why Choose Us for a Middle Range DUI Charge?

We are experienced in middle range drink driving cases and offer:

  • ✅ Transparent fixed fees
  • ✅ Expert guidance on sentencing strategies
  • ✅ Preparation of all court materials
  • ✅ Representation from start to finish

We'll advise you on the best approach to reduce disqualification, avoid jail, and keep your record clean where possible.

Call for a Free Middle Range DUI Case Review

Don't face court alone. We'll assess your case and help you prepare a strong defence.

Call us now on 1300 941 900

Or visit our Contact Page to book your free legal assessment.