0489 990 570
  • Going to court for

Driving without a licence?

Phil Simpson – Barrister with over 25 years experience, Phil can assist with getting you back on the road sooner, and even the possibility of having your driving charges dropped. Contact Phil today.

0489 990 570

Expertise

With over 25 years experience I have represented thousands of clients in a wide variety of cases.

Clear Focus

I predominatley represent clients in driving offences, traffic offences and criminal offences.

Customer Satisfaction

My dedication to client satisfaction is unmatched, providing personalised service and exceeding expectations.

Driving without a license phil simpson
  • Driving Without a Licence

Going to Court For Driving Without a Licence?

Phil Simpson has been a Barrister at the Victorian Bar for over 25 years. During this time, he has appeared for thousands of clients in a wide variety of cases. Phil spends much of his time appearing in the Magistrates’ Court for people who have been charged by the Police for Disqualified or disqualified driving.

Phil has a thorough knowledge of the law and is also pragmatic. He is known for his down-to-earth approach. He works hard for his clients and he is determined to get each of his clients the best possible outcome.

Been Caught Driving Without a Licence in Melbourne?

Appearing before the Court can be a very stressful experience. It will usually impact others as well. Family and close friends are likely to be impacted as well. Particularly if they depend on your ability to drive. Phil always takes the time to thoroughly explain to every client the necessary steps involved in achieving the best outcome. He will explain the “legal speak” in a way that makes sense. He will meet with you in person to explain the process, advise on your particular case and to answer any questions that you may have.

Losing your licence and driving without a licence?

When I prepare a case for someone who has been caught driving without a licence, all the preparation is geared towards keeping you on the road. A Magistrate does have a discretion to further suspend your licence. However, thorough preparation will maximise your chances of staying on the road.

Have You Been Caught Driving Without a Licence?

The offence of driving without a licence is an offence under section 18 of the Road Safety Act 1986.

Upcoming case for being caught driving without a licence?

The offence of driving without a licence is not as common as some other driving related offences. Quite often, the offence of driving without a licence is due to an administrative error or a lack of knowledge about the Victorian licence scheme. Sometimes, people are also charged with this offence as a result of an historical licence cancellation. Oftentimes, people don’t fulfill their obligations for relicensing following a drink or drug drive offence.

If you are charged with driving without a licence it is important to seek sound legal advice. You may have actually a defence to the charge – I can advise you on this. Even if you don’t have a defence, there are some very important steps involved in properly preparing your case for a plea in mitigation.

It’s important to understand that there is NO mandatory disqualification associated with this offence. This being the case, the aim of the game is to get you back on the road as soon as possible. Even though you may not have a licence, a Magistrate can still impose a period of disqualification. The best result is one that gets you back on the road as soon as possible.

Matters that a Court will usually consider when formulating a penalty

  • Have you ever held a licence?
  • If you’ve previously held a licence, why and when did you become unlicensed?
  • Have you taken steps to apply for a licence since you were charged?
  • Have you got previous driving history and, in particular, do you have priors for driving Disqualified, Suspended or unlicensed?
  • Is your offence aggravated by hooning, drink/drug driving or an accident?
  • Do you have any personal challenges
  • What is your financial position and to what extent does your employment rely on your ability to drive?

Do I Require legal representation for my Court appearance?

While there is no obligation to be represented, the presence of a Barrister definitely sends the right message to the Court. It shows the Court that you are taking the matter very seriously. This is likely to have an impact on the outcome. Magistrates often comment on the fact that a person has sourced and engaged legal representation. Furthermore, it demonstrates to the Court that you have gained an appropriate level of insight and remorse.

Various sentencing outcomes when caught driving without a licence

  • Adjourned Undertaking (Good behaviour bond)
  • Fine with or without conviction
  • Community Corrections Order
  • Jail sentence

I'm often asked: Is Driving Without a Licence a Criminal Offence?

Driving without a licence is a summary offence, which means it’s heard and determined in the Magistrates’ Court. The outcome will appear on your Court history, however, it will usually be confined to your VicRoads history rather than your Criminal history. The of your case is likely to be determined in part by your prior driving history. The Court will also be interested in the reason why you came to be driving without a licence. An administrative oversight (for example, failing to renew your licence) is obviously less serious than someone who fails to fulfill their re-licensing obligations following a drink or drug driving offence.

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Driving Without a Licence Charges Melbourne

Whatever the reason that you find yourself charged with an offence, it’s very important to get advice from a practitioner who understands the complexities of both the process and the law.

Driving without a license Jail Sentences

Minimise the potential impact on you and your livelihood

Driving without a license Community Corrections Orders

Driving without a license Victoria

What are the options I have from here?

In preparation for your Court date, I will meet with you personally, listen to your side of the story, analyse the facts and provide advice on the law. I will also advise you on the steps that you can take to fully prepare for your Court appearance. There are always a range of important steps that you can take that will assist to minimise your penalty. I will also make recommendations about suitable and appropriate personal character references.

0489 990 570

Victorian Courts I Attend For Driving without a licence

Ringwood Law Courts

Driving without a licence at Ringwood Magistrates Courts

Moorabbin Law Courts

Matters involving Driving without a licence at Moorabbin Magistrates Courts

Heidelberg Law Courts

Cases involving Driving without a licence at Heidelberg Magistrates Courts

Wyndham Law Courts

Cases relating to Driving without a licence at Wyndham Magistrates Courts

Melbourne Magistrates Court

Driving without a licence at Melbourne Magistrates Court

Frankston Magistrates' Court

Frankston Magistrates Court in relation to Driving without a licence

Dandenong Magistrates Court

Dandenong Magistrates Court in relation to Driving without a licence

Broadmeadows Magistrates Court

Broadmeadows Magistrates Court involving Driving without a licence

Neighbourhood Justice Centre

Neighbourhood Justice Centre relating to Driving without a licence

Sunshine Magistrates Court

Sunshine Magistrates Court for Driving without a licence

FAQs

What courts do you attend?
I attend all metropolitan courts in Melbourne. I can also attend many regional courts. Please contact me to discuss your case Melbourne, date and circumstances.

The moment you have been faced with any charges or taken in for questioning you should make contact with a lawyer immediately.

Experience counts, and can often make a big difference in the outcome of your case. If you want the best chance of minimal loss of license or time in custody make sure you reach out.

Driving without a licence Heard At Regional Victoria Courts

  • Ararat Magistrates Court
  • Bacchus Marsh Magistrates Court
  • Bairnsdale Magistrates Court
  • Ballarat Magistrates Court
  • Benalla Magistrates Court
  • Bendigo Law Courts
  • Castlemaine Magistrates Court
  • Cobram Magistrates Court

Driving without a licence at:

  • Colac Magistrates Court
  • Corryong Magistrates Court
  • Dromana Magistrates Court
  • Echuca Magistrates Court
  • Edenhope Magistrates Court
  • Geelong Magistrates Court
  • Hamilton Magistrates Court
  • Hopetoun Magistrates Court
  • Horsham Magistrates Court

Driving without a licence Heard At Regional Victoria Courts

  • Kerang Magistrates Court
  • Korumburra Magistrates Court
  • Kyneton Magistrates Court
  • Latrobe Valley Magistrates Court
  • Mansfield Magistrates Court
  • Maryborough Magistrates Court
  • Myrtleford Magistrates Court
  • Portland Magistrates Court

Driving without a licence at:

  • Sale Magistrates Court
  • Seymour Magistrates Court
  • Shepparton Magistrates Court
  • St Arnaud Magistrates Court
  • Stawell Magistrates Court
  • Wangaratta Magistrates Court
  • Warrnambool Magistrates Court
  • Wonthaggi Magistrates Court
Over 25 Years Experience in Melbourne Courts

Advice | Understanding | Empathy

Our Google Reviews Say It All

Over 100+ 5 star reviews

Brad
Brad
2 months ago
Had a wonderful experience with Phil, who represented my Client incredibly well and achieved the best possible outcome for him. Everything was smooth throughout the entire process with strong communication or organisational efforts at all times. Court day is where Phil really shone, putting my client at ease and guiding him through the process. Phil is now my first choice for in court legal representation.
Mark
Mark
2 months ago
I found myself in a legal situation and after my first contact with Phil, he was very professional, by listening and responding with providing clear, confident understanding of my position and then explained my options in plain terms. He was prepared thoroughly at every hearing and the outcome was better than I could imagine. Thank you again Phil. Highly recommended.
Jun
Jun
2 months ago
Phil’s someone you hope you never need, but when you do all you will ever need. Most lawyers have a grasp of legal matters, the way Phil practices law is the true differentiation. He will guide you through in plain English and more like an old friend than a service provider. Like a friend, he will give it to you straight but in a way that leaves you feeling like he’s got your back rather being handed a new one. A coffee after a milestone, thanks Phil 🙏
DANI
DANI
3 months ago
We cannot thank Phil enough for his kind, compassionate and professional approach with our legal matter. Phil ensured us that he would do everything he could and beyond, to get the result he wanted for us, and that he did. Life changing. Thank you 🙏 Phil. Dre and Dani …
Jia
Jia
4 months ago
I’m extremely grateful for the support and expertise of Phil. He provided clear, confident and highly effective representation. Excellent communication and genuine care throughout the process. Highly recommended.
Vince
Vince
4 months ago
Phil is an exceptional lawyer who is very down to earth, professional, and punctual. He doesn’t sugarcoat things and explains the possibilities clearly, which helped me make informed decisions during a very difficult time. Phil got me out of a very traumatic experience and was truly a blessing throughout the entire process. He was always responsive and worked tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for my case. I am incredibly grateful for his dedication and straightforward approach. Highly recommended.
Devn
Devn
4 months ago
From our first conversation, Phil was calm, organised, and direct. He listened carefully to my situation, explained my options in plain terms, and prepared thoroughly at every stage. He advocated with measured confidence and communicated promptly and courteously throughout. He set clear expectations, kept me informed, and focused on what truly mattered. We achieved an excellent result, and I am profoundly grateful for his professionalism, care, and commitment. I recommend him without hesitation.

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