Disqualified Driver Gets Unheard of Sentence with Carolyn Shiels

Lawyer-in-charge: Carolyn Shiels

When our client came to Carolyn, he was facing his 14th charge of driving while disqualified, a serious offence, particularly given his recent release from a custodial sentence for the same behaviour.

However, this time was different.

Our client had undergone a significant shift in mindset. Determined to break the cycle of reoffending, he was committed to turning his life around. Carolyn recognised the importance of this change and immediately set about building a compelling case to support rehabilitation over reincarceration.

Working closely with the client, Carolyn obtained a detailed psychological report and compiled strong subjective material, including personal statements and evidence of meaningful lifestyle changes. She ensured the plea was entered at the earliest opportunity to reflect the client’s acceptance of responsibility and readiness to move forward.

Thanks to her thorough preparation and persuasive advocacy, Carolyn successfully argued for a Community Corrections Order of 18 months, with a strong focus on rehabilitation and supervision, a remarkable result given the client’s history.

This outcome reflects not only the Court’s recognition of genuine reform but also Carolyn’s ability to balance compassion with legal strategy. Rather than sending our client back to prison, the Court was guided towards a more constructive path, one that gives him a real chance at rebuilding his life.