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Speeding Offences, Penalties and Defences | NSW Traffic Lawyers

Faraj Defence Lawyers are experienced Traffic Lawyers who have represented many clients who have been caught speeding. We have been able to attain favourable outcomes for our clients, if you’ve been charged with this offence contact our team today for a free initial consultation.

Have you been caught speeding?

Speeding is a common traffic offence that occurs when you exceed the posted speed limit while driving. It is a serious violation with potential consequences that extend beyond a fine. If you are charged with speeding, losing your licence is a large consequence which will disrupt your daily life.

If you have been charged with speeding, having skilled defence lawyers is essential. Faraj Defence Lawyers have extensive experience and expertise in handling speeding and traffic violation cases. Call us now if you need assistance with your speeding offence.

Why Choose Faraj Defence Lawyers for your Speeding charge?

When facing a speeding charge, choosing Faraj Defence Lawyers ensures you have a dedicated team with specialised expertise in traffic offences by your side. With our deep understanding of the legal intricacies involved we prepare specific defences tailored to your individual needs. 

01

Free initial consultation

We understand the importance of an initial assessment, which is why we offer free consultations to discuss the specifics of your case.

02

Expert Defence Strategies

We craft meticulous defence strategies aimed at securing favourable outcomes, including aiming and securing Section 10 dismissals & non-convictions.

03

Unwavering Support and Guidance

Unwavering support and guidance from the beginning to the resolution of your case, ensuring you are informed and empowered throughout.

04

Negotiation Expertise

Our extensive knowledge on dealing with the prosecution has allowed us to develop expert negotiation strategies that will tip the scales in our favour.

05

Direct Access to Senior Criminal Lawyer

Direct access to a senior criminal lawyer who will oversee your case. Ensuring your matter is handled with the utmost expertise and attention it deserves.

06

Fixed Fees and Transparent Pricing

We believe in transparency. Our firm operates on fixed fees, providing clarity on costs from the outset. Eliminating any unexpected financial burdens.

What our clients say about us

Rod D

The serious situation had been mishandled by previous lawyers, leaving me under immense pressure. I cannot speak highly enough of him; he is an exceptional lawyer exuding confidence in the courtroom, with an unparalleled attention to detail, all underscored by his professional yet compassionate demeanor.

David T

Great lawyer. Better person.

Didn’t do him any favours by coming to him late, yet was still ready and prepped when I needed. Transparent from start to finish and I had no doubt in his ability from the start.

Definitely recommend and would go to if needed again.

Read More Reviews

How can I beat a Speeding Charge?

Speeding charges can be issued based on various factors like radar readings or observations by law enforcement. If you believe you did not exceed the speed limit or have a valid defence, you can contest the charge. 

It is crucial to remember that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution, meaning they must demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the offence. Therefore, you have the opportunity to challenge their evidence and present your own case. 

The magistrate will take all evidence and relevant information into account and will decide whether or not your speeding charge is valid. If it is decided to be invalid, then you will be able to leave without any repercussions.

Then what are the possible defences to speeding?

Mistaken Identity

The defence of mistaken identity asserts that you were not the person who was driving at the time of the alleged offence. In order to use this defence you will need to present evidence to the court including testimony from witnesses who can confirm your whereabouts, documentation such as receipts or surveillance footage showing you were elsewhere.

You could also show proof that someone else had access to and was using your vehicle at the time. If the prosecution cannot prove beyond a reasonable doubt that it was you driving the vehicle, you will be able to leave without repercussions of the charge.

Honest and reasonable mistake

This defence relies on demonstrating that you had a genuine belief that you were not exceeding the speed limit at the time of the alleged offence. For example, if the speed limit signs were obscured, damaged or missing, or if you were driving in adverse weather conditions which affected the visibility. In these cases, you may argue that you did not realise you were speeding.

The radar or speeding device was not calibrated on time or was faulty

Challenging the accuracy of the radar or speeding device could be a defence to a speeding charge. This defence involves gathering evidence that calls into question its reliability. This could include maintenance records showing a lack of calibration or irregularities, or documentation of precious instances where the device produced inaccurate readings. 

Duress

To use duress as a defence, you must show that you were compelled to speed due to a genuine fear of harm or coercion by another party. This could involve providing evidence of threats, intimidation, or force used against you or someone else in your presence. Witness testimony, police reports documenting incidents or harassment or violence, or even physical evidence such as injuries sustained can strengthen this defence.

Necessity

Necessity argues that you had a compelling reason to exceed the speed limit in order to prevent a greater harm. This could include providing medical records or testimony from healthcare professionals confirming the urgency of the situation, as well as evidence showing that you took the most reasonable course of actions available to address the emergency.

What are the penalties for speeding?

Penalties for speeding in NSW range from the speed limit and are different for full-licence and provisional licence holders. It is important to note that when you court elect a speeding fine, it ‘turns into’ a Court Attendance Notice. This means that apart from the penalties for speeding which are listed below, the court can also issue one of the following:

If you receive a non-conviction penalty, you will not be subject to any suspension or fine. You can find the demerit points & fines for different speeding scenarios below.

Speeding Demerit Points, Fines & Suspensions

Class A Vehicles

Speeding Offence

Demerit Points

Fine

Automatic Suspension

Not more than 10km/h

1

$123.00

N/A

Not more than 10km/h - Learners & Provision License Holders

4

$137.00

3 months minimum

More than 10km/h

3

$285.00

N/A

More than 10km/h - Learners & Provision License Holders

4

$316.00

3 months minimum

More than 20km/h

    4

    $542.00

    N/A

    More than 30km/h

    5

    $935.00

    3 months minimum

    More than 45km/h

    6

    $935.00

    6 months minimum

    Not more than 10km/h (school zone)

    2

    $203.00

    N/A

    Not more than 10km/h (school zone) - Learners & Provision License Holders

    5

    $405.00

    3 months minimum

    More than 10km/h (school zone)

    4

    $365.00

    N/A

    More than 10km/h (school zone) - Learners & Provision License Holders

    5

    $255.00

    3 months minimum

    More than 20km/h (school zone)

    5

    $609.00

    N/A

    More than 30km/h (school zone)

    6

    $1,179.00

    3 months

    More than 45km/h (school zone)

    7

    $2,676.00

    6 months

    Pass school bus at more than 40km/h - no more than 10km/h

    1

    $137.00

    N/A

    Pass school bus at more than 40km/h - more than 10km/h

    3

    $316.00

    N/A

    Pass school bus at more than 40km/h - more than 20km/h

    4

    $542.00

    N/A

    Pass school bus at more than 40km/h - more than 30km/h

    5

    $1,036.00

    N/A

    Pass school bus at more than 40km/h - more than 45km/h

    6

    $2,794.00

    N/A

    Class B Vehicles

    Speeding Offence

    Demerit Points

    Fine

    Automatic Suspension

    Not more than 10km/h

    2

    $405.00

    N/A

    Not more than 10km/h - Learners & Provision License Holders

    5

    $405.00

    3 months minimum

    More than 10km/h

    4

    $542.00

    N/A

    More than 10km/h - Learners & Provision License Holders

    4

    $542.00

    3 months minimum

    More than 20km/h

      5

      $675.00

      N/A

      More than 30km/h

      6

      $1,307.00

      N/A

      More than 45km/h

      6

      $2,794.00

      6 months

      Not more than 10km/h (school zone)

      2

      $542.00

      N/A

      Not more than 10km/h (school zone) - Learners & Provision License Holders

      5

      $542.00

      3 months minimum

      More than 10km/h (school zone)

      4

      $675.00

      N/A

      More than 10km/h (school zone) - Learners & Provision License Holders

      5

      $675.00

      3 months minimum

      More than 20km/h (school zone)

      5

      $811.00

      N/A

      More than 30km/h (school zone)

      6

      $1,307.00

      3 months

      More than 45km/h (school zone)

      7

      $2,967.00

      6 months

      Pass school bus at more than 40km/h - no more than 10km/h

      1

      $405.00

      N/A

      Pass school bus at more than 40km/h - more than 10km/h

      3

      $542.00

      N/A

      Pass school bus at more than 40km/h - more than 20km/h

      4

      $542.00

      N/A

      Pass school bus at more than 40km/h - more than 30km/h

      5

      $1,036.00

      N/A

      Pass school bus at more than 40km/h - more than 45km/h

      6

      $2,794.00

      N/A

      Class C Vehicles

      Speeding Offence

      Demerit Points

      Fine

      Automatic Suspension

      Not more than 10km/h

      1

      $405.00

      N/A

      Not more than 10km/h - Learners & Provision License Holders

      5

      $137.00

      3 months minimum

      More than 10km/h

      4

      $542.00

      N/A

      More than 10km/h - Learners & Provision License Holders

      4

      $542.00

      3 months minimum

      More than 20km/h

        5

        $675.00

        N/A

        More than 30km/h

        6

        $1,623.00

        N/A

        More than 45km/h

        6

        $4,236.00

        6 months minimum

        Not more than 10km/h (school zone)

        2

        $542.00

        N/A

        Not more than 10km/h (school zone) - Learners & Provision License Holders

        5

        $542.00

        3 months minimum

        More than 10km/h (school zone)

        4

        $542.00

        N/A

        More than 10km/h (school zone) - Learners & Provision License Holders

        5

        $675.00

        3 months minimum

        More than 20km/h (school zone)

        5

        $609.00

        N/A

        More than 30km/h (school zone)

        6

        $1,713.00

        3 months

        More than 45km/h (school zone)

        7

        $4,385.00

        6 months

        Pass school bus at more than 40km/h - no more than 10km/h

        1

        $405.00

        N/A

        Pass school bus at more than 40km/h - more than 10km/h

        3

        $542.00

        N/A

        Pass school bus at more than 40km/h - more than 20km/h

        4

        $542.00

        N/A

        Pass school bus at more than 40km/h - more than 30km/h

        5

        $1,036.00

        N/A

        Pass school bus at more than 40km/h - more than 45km/h

        6

        $2,794.00

        N/A

        Learners & Provisional Speed Limit (90 km/h & 100 km/h)

        Learners and provisional licence holders have specific speed limits they must adhere to for safety reasons. For learners and those with a provisional P1 licence, the speed limit is set at 90km/h. Once you have progressed to a provisional P2 licence, you are allowed to drive at speeds up to 100km/h. 

        It’s crucial that as a learner or provisional driver you are not exceeding the speed limit as demerit points for these offences are often higher than when on your full licence. Speeding could result in a large sum of demerit points being deducted or your licence being automatically suspended.

        Speeding Offence

        Demerit Points

        Fine

        Automatic Suspension

        Not more than 10km/h

        4

        $137.00

        Learner/P1 – Yes
        P2 – No

        More than 10 km/h

        4

        $316.00

        Learner/P1 – Yes
        P2 – No

        More than 20 km/h

        4

        $542.00

        Learner/P1 – Yes
        P2 – No

        More than 30 km/h

        5

        $1,307.00

        Learner/P1 – Yes
        P2 – No

        More than 45 km/h

          6

          $2,794.00

          Yes

          Penalties if you are convicted by the court

          Speeding Offence:

          Light Vehicles:

          Heavy Vehicles:

          Automatic Suspension

          Not more than 10km/h

          $2,200

          $2,200

          N/A

          More than 10 km/h

          $2,200

          $2,200

          N/A

          More than 20 km/h

          $2,200

          $2,200

          N/A

          More than 30 km/h

          $2,200

          $2,200

          3 months minimum

          More than 45 km/h

            $2,300

            $5,500

            6 months minimum

            How can Faraj Defence Lawyers help?

            If you decide to Court Elect your Fine

            Court electing a fine involves choosing to contest a speeding charge in court rather than simply paying the fine upfront. This decision allows you to present your case before the court, challenging the validity of the charge or seeking a reduction in the penalty imposed. This process will involve scheduling a court date, preparing a legal strategy and presenting evidence to support your case.

            Faraj Defence Lawyers can assist you in this process by providing expert legal advice, conducting thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding the alleged violation, and presenting compelling arguments in court. We will advocate for the best possible outcome for you, whether it be a dismissal of charges, a reduction in fines, or alternative sentencing options.

            If you decide to appeal your license suspension

            If you plead guilty to a speeding offence but wish to contest the resulting licence suspension, you have to option to appeal the decision. This process involves submitting an appeal to the relevant authority, typically a court or administrative tribunal, seeking to overturn or mitigate the suspension of your licensee. The appeal process may entail presenting evidence, arguing legal points and demonstrating mitigating circumstances that warrant leniency.

            Faraj Defence Lawyers can provide crucial assistance throughout the appeal process. We can help file the appeal, gather evidence and prepare persuasive arguments in order to try and overturn or change the decision.

            Going to Court? Book a free consultation with our Expert Traffic Lawyers today

            If you have been charges with speeding you can schedule a complimentry consultation with one of our expert traffic lawyers today. Whether you are seeking advice on your legal options or need guidance in handling the legal process, our team is here to help. We provide personalised consultations to discuss your case in detail, offering insights into potential defences, strategies and possible outcomes.

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            Meet Our Team

            Ahmad Faraj

            Mr. Ahmad Faraj is a senior criminal lawyer and the principal of Faraj Defence Lawyer. Ahmad is a highly accomplished lawyer in New South Wales, specialising in both criminal and traffic law matters.

            Learn More

            Chanel Joseph

            As a paralegal at Faraj Defence Lawyer, Chanel specializes in assisting with criminal and traffic law matters, working closely with both criminal lawyers and our clients to help receive the best results.

            Learn More

            Have a question?

            Frequently Asked Questions

            Frequently Asked Questions

            Faraj Defence Lawyers is a Sydney based law firm specialising in criminal and traffic law matters.

            Is speeding a criminal offence is Australia?

            In Australia, speeding is primarily considered a traffic offence rather than a criminal offence, Traffic offences are typically governed by state or territory laws and are enforced by relevant traffic authorities. The penalties for speeding usually involve fines, demerit points, and in some cases, licence suspensions or disqualifications. Criminal offences, on the other hand, involve actions that are more serious and can result in criminal charges, potentially leading to imprisonment or a criminal record.

            However, it is important to note that certain circumstances may elevate a speeding offence to a criminal level. For instance, if speeding is accompanied by other serious violations such as reckless driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or causing injury or death, it may be treated as a criminal offence. Additionally, repeated or excessively high-speed violations could result in harsher penalties, including the possibility of criminal charges.

            Will I get a criminal record for speeding?

            Usually, a standard speeding offence in Australia does not result in a criminal record. As mentioned earlier, speeding is considered a traffic offence rather than a criminal offence in most cases. However, if the speeding violation is severe or accompanied by other criminal acts, it may lead to criminal charges and a subsequent criminal record.

            Having a criminal record can have significant implication, including difficulities in obtaining employment, obtaining visas for international travel, and other personal professional consequences. Therefore, it is essential to understand the potential ramifications of any speeding offence and take the appropriate steps to address it.

            Will I go to jail for speeding in NSW?

            In NSW, the likelihood of imprisonment for a standard speeding offence is low. Most speeding offences in NSW are penalised with fines, demerit points, and potentially licence suspensions or disqualifications, depending on the severity of the violation. Imprisonment is typically reserved for more serious cases, such as grossly excessive speeding or speeding accompanied by other serious offences such as reckless driving, driving under the influence or causing injury or death.

            However, it is important to recognise that repeated or severe speeding offences could lead to harsher penalties, including the possibility of imprisonment. Additionally, penalties for speeding can vary depending on the circumstances and the discretion of the court.

            Are there any options for leniency or reduction of penalties for speeding offences?

            There are various options for leniency or reduction of penalties for speeding offences in Australia. Some of these options include:

            • Speed Awareness Courses – attending a speed awareness court may be available as an alternative to paying fines or accumulating demerit points. These courses aim to educate drivers about the dangers of speeding and  promote safer driving. 

            • Section 10 Dismissal or Coniditonal Release- Under certain circumstances, a court may grant a section 10 dismissal or a conditional release, which effectively results in the offence being dismissed without a conviction recorded. This option is typically reserved for minor offences or where there are exceptional circumstances warranting leniency. However, eligibility for a section 10 dismissal varies depending on the circumstances of the case.

            • Character references and mitigation – Presenting character references and mitigation evidence to the court can also be effective in seeking leniency or a reduction of penalties. Character references from employers, community members, or other reputable individuals can help demonstrate your good character and remorse for the offence. Mitigation evidence may include personal circumstances, financial hardship or factors contributing to the offence that warrant consideration by the court. 

            What are the consequences of speeding in a school zone or during holiday periods?

            Speeding in school ones or during holiday periods can carry more severe consequences due to the increased risk of vulnerable road users and higher traffic volumes. Authorities often implement stricter enforcement measures during these times to ensure the safety of pedestrians, especially children, and other road users. Some potential consequences of speeding in school zones or during holiday periods may include:

            • Higher fines- Fines for speeding offences in school zones or during holiday periods may be higher compared to standard fines to deter dangerous driving behaviour and prioritise road safety. 

            • Increased demerit points- Speeding offences in school zones or holiday periods may attract higher demerit point penalties, which can lead to licence suspensions if accumulated over time. 

            • Mandatory Licence Suspensions – In some cases, speeding in school zones or during holiday periods may result in mandatory licence suspensions or disqualifications, particularly for severe or repeat offences.

            How do I write a letter to get out of a speeding fine?

            When writing a letter to contest a speeding fine, it is crucial to approach the process professionally and respectfully. The letter can be structured as follows:

            • Introduction

              • Begin the letter with a polite greeting addressed to the relevant authority. 

              • Provide your full name, address, contact information, and the reference number or details of the speeding fine you are contesting. 

            • Explanation of Circumstances

              • Clearly explain the circumstances surrounding the speeding offence. Be honest and provide any relevant details or mitigating factors that may have contributed to the violation. 

              • If there were any emergency situations or extenuating circumstances that necessitated your actions, be sure to explain them thoroughly. 

            • Apology and Acceptance of Responsibility: 

              • Express sincere regret for the offence and acknowledge your responsibility for the violation. Accepting responsibility demonstrates maturity and can positively influence the outcome of your request. 

              • If applicable, mention any steps you have taken to rectify the situation or prevent similar incidents form occurring in the future. 

            • Request Leniency

              • Respectfully request leniency from issuing authority. Clearly state your reasons for contesting the fine and why you believe it should be waived, reduced or replaced with an alternative penalty. 

              • If you have any supporting or documentation to support your case, such as witness statements, medical records, or proof of mitigating circumstances, include them in the letter.

            • Closing

              • Thank the recipient for considering your request and taking the time to review your letter. Express appreciation for their attention to the matter. 

            Contact us for representation today

            We look forward to helping you in your time of need and assisting you in achieving justice. We know how stressful these times can be therefore, your enquiry will be responded to within the same day.

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