Facts: Driving under influence of a prohibited drug
WS was charged with driving under the influence (DUI) of a prohibited drug (section 112 Road Transport Act (NSW)). WS was involved in a collision with another car. Police arrived to the scene and breath tested WS, which returned a negative reading. However, based on police observations it was suspected WS was under the influence of an intoxicating substance (section 111, Road Transport 2013 (NSW)). This statute covers the presence of certain drugs (other than alcohol) in oral fluid, blood, or urine.
Time limit for commencement of summary proceedings exceeded
Pursuant to s 179(2) of the Criminal Procedure Act 1986 (NSW), proceedings for a summary offence must be commenced no later than 6 months from when the offence was alleged to have been committed.
O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors determined the police had filed the charge one day after the six month time limit. Since the Prosecution is unable to lay a fresh charge under s111 of the Road Transport Act 2013 (NSW), the charge was marked as having ‘No Jurisdiction’ and the proceedings were dismissed by court.
