Hi all,
I have recently been charged with being in charge of a vehicle while unfit to drive through drink and am due to appear in the Magistrates' court within the next couple of weeks. I am expecting either 10 penalty points or a driving ban.
I am currently studying for the SQE and hold a training contract with a City firm, which I am due to commence in September 2026. I want to be clear that I fully accept responsibility for my actions, and recognise the seriousness of the offence as well as the potential risks posed to other road users. While I was under significant pressure at the time due to the SQE exams, I do not consider this to be in any way an excuse for my reckless behaviour. I am so disappointed in myself, given the privileged position I am in to have a TC and be sponsored by my firm to sit the SQE.
When I was 17 I was also convicted of a drink-driving offence. Whilst this is spent, I disclosed this when applying for transparency. These incidents are entirely out of character for me, and are lapses of judgment made in moments of stress, mental anguish and foolishness. I have abstained from alcohol and will continue to do so.
I would be really grateful for any guidance on the following:
I have recently been charged with being in charge of a vehicle while unfit to drive through drink and am due to appear in the Magistrates' court within the next couple of weeks. I am expecting either 10 penalty points or a driving ban.
I am currently studying for the SQE and hold a training contract with a City firm, which I am due to commence in September 2026. I want to be clear that I fully accept responsibility for my actions, and recognise the seriousness of the offence as well as the potential risks posed to other road users. While I was under significant pressure at the time due to the SQE exams, I do not consider this to be in any way an excuse for my reckless behaviour. I am so disappointed in myself, given the privileged position I am in to have a TC and be sponsored by my firm to sit the SQE.
When I was 17 I was also convicted of a drink-driving offence. Whilst this is spent, I disclosed this when applying for transparency. These incidents are entirely out of character for me, and are lapses of judgment made in moments of stress, mental anguish and foolishness. I have abstained from alcohol and will continue to do so.
I would be really grateful for any guidance on the following:
- I will disclose the recent driving offence to my future employer immediately following my court hearing. However, I am concerned that my TC will be rescinded. Is this a strong likelihood?
- How will the SRA view this in the context of character and suitability, and what steps I can take now to mitigate any adverse findings? Should I get in contact with the SRA, or ask my employer for some advice (provided they do not rescind my TC)?
