James Papas Solicitors acknowledges the Darug people as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work, and pays respect to Elders past, present, and emerging.

Traffic Law

Traffic Law &
Local Court

Experienced Local Court representation for all traffic matters — from drink driving and speeding to licence appeals and disqualifications. Protecting your licence and your livelihood.

Free First Consultation(02) 9633 3122
Why Representation Matters

Don't let a traffic charge
cost you your licence.

A traffic conviction can mean more than a fine — it can mean losing your licence, your job, and your independence. We appear regularly in the Parramatta Local Court and surrounding courts, and we know what it takes to achieve the best possible outcome.

Whether you are facing a drink driving charge, a speeding matter, or a licence disqualification, we assess your options honestly and fight hard on your behalf. In appropriate cases, we pursue section 10 dismissals to avoid a conviction altogether.

Contact us as soon as possible after being charged — early advice makes a real difference to your outcome.

Get Advice Now
What We Handle

Traffic Law Services

Drink driving (PCA) offences
Drug driving offences
Speeding infringements
Driving without a licence
Disqualified & suspended licence driving
Licence appeals & disqualifications
Automatic licence disqualification
Dangerous driving
Negligent driving
Demerit point appeals
Work licence applications
Traffic infringement notices
Heavy vehicle offences
Local Court appearances
Sentencing submissions

Charged with a traffic offence?
Act now — your licence depends on it.

Common Questions

Traffic Law FAQs

QI have been charged with drink driving. What should I do?
Contact a lawyer immediately. The consequences of a drink driving conviction — including automatic licence disqualification, fines, and possible imprisonment for high-range PCA offences — depend heavily on your blood alcohol reading, your record, and how you are represented. We appear regularly in Parramatta Local Court and will present the strongest possible case on your behalf.
QWill I lose my licence?
For many traffic offences, licence disqualification is automatic. However, the period of disqualification can often be reduced through effective legal representation and mitigating factors. In some cases, a section 10 dismissal may be available — meaning no conviction is recorded and no disqualification imposed. We assess your prospects honestly from the outset.
QWhat is a section 10 dismissal?
A Section 10 of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999 allows a court to dismiss a charge without recording a conviction. If granted, you are not convicted and suffer no licence disqualification or fine. Section 10 is not available in every case — it depends on your record, the nature of the offence, and other factors. We advise you honestly on whether it is a realistic outcome in your case.
QI have been charged with a serious traffic offence. Can I still drive while the matter is being heard?
In most cases, unless your licence has been suspended by police at the time of the charge, you can continue to drive until the court makes an order. However, this depends on the specific circumstances. We advise you on your rights and obligations from day one.
QCan I represent myself in a traffic matter?
You can, but it is rarely advisable. Traffic matters before the Local Court can have serious consequences for your licence, your employment, and your record. Effective legal representation — including well-prepared written submissions and mitigating material — significantly improves your prospects. Your first consultation is free.
QI was speeding on the way to work. Can my job be taken into account?
Yes. The impact on your employment is one of the most important mitigating factors a court considers. If losing your licence would cause you or your family serious hardship — particularly if you drive for work — this can significantly affect the penalty. We gather the right evidence and present it persuasively on your behalf.
QHow much does traffic legal representation cost?
Our fees for traffic matters are competitive and we provide a clear, upfront estimate before you engage us. The cost of legal representation is almost always less than the long-term consequences of an uncontested conviction — particularly where your licence or livelihood is at stake. Your first consultation is free.