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\fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI
\par AT SUVA
\par APPELLATE JURISDICTION
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10636955 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1124218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10636955\charrsid10636955 Criminal Appeal No. HAA0}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 038 of 2004
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1124218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1124218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 BETWEEN:
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1124218 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 AGEET LAL}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10636955\charrsid10636955 

\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 f/n Shiu Bali
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 Appellant
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1124218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1124218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 AND:
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1124218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1124218 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 STATE
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 Respondent
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1124218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 Counsel for Appellant -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955  Mr. G. O\rquote Driscoll
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 Counsel for State -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955  Ms. L. Chandra
\par 
\par Date of Hearing: 19th May, 2004
\par Date of Judgment: 19th M}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3489854\charrsid10636955 ay, 2004}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
\par 
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\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 TEMPORE JUDGMENT
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\par The appellant was convicted on one count of driving a motor vehicle with excess blood alcohol on the 1st of January, 2004.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 This was his second offence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
The maximum penalty is a fine of up to $5,000.00, 5 years imprisonment and disqualification from 6 months to 4 years.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 He was sentenced on the 3rd of February, 2004 to a fine of $3,000.00 (in default 12 months imprisonment) and disqualified from driving for 18 months.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 
\par 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 He now appeals sentence.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
The grounds of appeal are brief.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 He claimed that the sentence is excessive and unduly harsh.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 In many respects the State concedes that to be so.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 
\par 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 I note there is a need for a tariff decision on drunk driving but this is not the occasion to do so.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 The appellant acknowledges his offending, wants to pay a fine, serve a disqualification period and move on in his life putting these matters behind him.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 Accordingly despite the State\rquote s invitation to consider the range of available sentences and
 a collateral issue concerning the suspending of sentences pending appeal, I decline to do so.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
This is not a State\rquote s appeal.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 The appellant\rquote 
s views of disposal of his case must take precedence on this occasion.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
However, I invite the DPP to consider another more suitable occasion when these issues can be addressed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 
\par 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 The Law}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 Penalties for drunk driving in Fiji are detailed in the Land Transport Act and in accordance with a schedule:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 

\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1124218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 For a first offence the penalty is $2,000.00, 2 years and a mandatory disqua
lification between 3 months to 2 years.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1124218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1124218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
For a second offence $5,000.00, 5 years and a mandatory disqualification between 6 months to 4 years.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1124218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1124218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
For an offence of 2 or more convictions within the 5 years preceding the instant offence the penalty is $10,000.00, 10 years and a mandatory disqualificatio}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 
n between 12 months to 5 years.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid1124218 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 This scheme of penalties is indicative of Parliament\rquote s view and quite rightly so that drink driving is unacceptable.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 The increasing range of penalties is there to remind citizens 
that if they drink and drive and accept that risk then they can expect increasingly harsh and stern sentences.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 
\par 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 When will the message sink in.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
Alcohol and driving don\rquote t mix.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
To quote the New Zealand vernacular from a drink driving campaign if you drink and drive you\rquote re a bloody idiot.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 
\par 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 That must be especially so in a city with such a good and cheap taxi system.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 
\par 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 However, I must apply the law.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
For a second offence the penalties are $5,000.00, 5 years imprisonment and mandatory disqualification between 6 months to 4 years.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 
\par 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 I must disqualify you.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
However, unlike other jurisdictions Fiji has no statutory scheme of avoiding mandatory disqualification or ameliorating its harsher aspects by granting work related temporary licences.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 As my sister Justice Shameem observes in State v Prasad HAA}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10636955\charrsid10636955 00}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 38 of 2003 is:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 
\par 
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The courts do not have powers to order disqualification between certain hours of the day.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
They do not have powers to disqualify from driving certain classes of vehicle.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
When a person is disqualified from driving, he is taken off the roads for the period of time specified.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 "
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 The length of disqualification depends on the following factors:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 1. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 Th
e standard of driving shown in the offending.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 2. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
Any previous convictions for traffic offences.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 3. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
The need to protect the public from dangerous/careless/drunk drivers.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 4. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
Good character.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 5. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
Serious hardship to the family.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 6. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
Driving providing the source of livelihood for the offender.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10636955 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 (}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
R v Thomas}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955  78 Cr.App.R.44, }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 R v Hart}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 ; 
}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 R v Jackson}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955  (1970) RTR 165; }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
Reynolds v Roche}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955  (1972) RTR 282).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 In my view these factors will determine the appropriate length of disqualification.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 In his sentencing the learned Magistrate imposed a fine for a second offence of $3,000.00.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 This was in stark contrast to the fine for the first offence of $100.00.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 In addition the appellant was disqualified for 18 months.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 This is in contra distinction to his first disqualification of 3 months back in February of 2000.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
While an inevitable increase in penalty is to be expected for a second and subsequent offending, in my view there is a stark and unacceptable increase in the range of penalties between the first and second offending.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 Further in my view the penalties given for the first offending were far too light.}{
\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
In my view they should have been closer to a fine of between 500 and a $1,000.00 and a disqualification for a six month period.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
\par However, the learned Magistrate did not consider proper principles.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 His sentence is understandably brief.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 In its b}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10636955\charrsid10636955 r}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 ev}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10636955\charrsid10636955 i}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 ty and lack of reasoning it is wrong.}
{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 It is unbalanced.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 It is this error in principle that results in an excessive and harsh penalty.
\par 
\par You are a second offender.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 You went out and partied on new year\rquote s eve.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 You drank.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 You chose to drive.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
When you do that you not only put your own life at risk but that of other road users.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
You also put at risk your famil}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10636955\charrsid10636955 y'}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 s livelihood and your job. You must learn the lesson.}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 From now on if you choose to drink take a taxi.
\par 
\par In accordance with the principles detailed in Prasad:
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 1. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
There was no criticism in your standard of driving.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 This was a stop at a random check}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955 -}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 point.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 2. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
Apart from your drink driving offence in November of 2000 you have otherwise good character.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 3. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
You are in good employment.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 Driving provides for your livelihood within that employment.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 4. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
Because you are in employment you can afford to pay a fine.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 Conclusion
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 The sentence in the Court below is quashed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 It is substituted with:
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 1. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
A fine of $1,000.00.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 2. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
Disqualification from holding, obtaining or using a driver\rquote s licence for a period of 10 months commencing now.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 In that regard I note I would have imposed a 12 months\rquote  disqualification period but you have served approximately 1\'bd months of your original disqualification.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 3. }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
In default of payment of the fine 6 months imprisonment.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
\par I am also going to ask that the file be marked final warning.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 What that means is that if you offend again and
 drive with access blood alcohol you must expect a sentence of imprisonment to be the most likely outcome.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1124218\charrsid10636955  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 Don
\rquote t drink and drive again.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 Gerard Winter
\par JUDGE
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12334787 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10636955 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14292993\charrsid10636955 At Suva
\par 20th May, 2004}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12334787\charrsid10636955 
\par }}