Thursday, 12 March 2026
Description
Attend and earn 0.5 CPD unit in Substantive Law
This program is based on QLD legislation
Chair
Jenna du Preez, Barrister, Fullagar Chambers
When It Is Not ‘Just’ A Traffic Offence – Defending Serious or Repeat Driving Charges in Queensland When Clients Are at Risk of Imprisonment
Driving offences can carry serious consequences for clients, including the risk of imprisonment. This includes serious charges such as dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm, as well as repeat offences of drink driving or disqualified driving.
- Examine when driving matters expose clients to imprisonment
- Navigate strategies to best defend and reduce the risks to clients
Presented by Amy Soong, Legal Practice Director, Ashworth Lawyers
Presenters
Jenna du Preez, Barrister, Fullagar ChambersJenna was called to the bar in 2025. She was admitted as a solicitor in 2015. Jenna has a diverse legal background with experience in private practice and Government roles, most recently at Legal Aid Queensland. With a focus predominantly on criminal defence, Jenna has gained significant experience representing clients in a broad range of matters from the Magistrates Court to the Court of Appeal. As a regular duty lawyer, Jenna has appeared in over 200 sentences and over 100 bail application in the Magistrates Court. This has allowed her to develop and refine her advocacy skills. In addition to criminal law, Jenna has experience in migration law, assisting clients with visa applications, refusals, and cancellations. Jenna has also worked in domestic violence, child protection, property law, and with Queensland Corrective Services.
Amy Soong, Legal Practice Director, Ashworth Lawyers
Amy Soong is the Legal Practice Director of Ashworth Lawyers, a criminal defence firm she founded in 2014 focusing on defending serious and complex Queensland and Commonwealth crimes. With more than 17 years of experience exclusively in criminal defence, she has acted in a wide range of complex matters including large-scale drug operations, transnational organised crime, sexual violence, and major fraud. Amy holds a Master of Laws, has completed the Bar Practice Course, and is a Fellow of the Australian and New Zealand College of Notaries. She is an active member of the Queensland Law Society Wellbeing Working Group. Amy’s contributions have been recognised through multiple honours, including being named a finalist for the 2023 Entrepreneur of the Year Lord Mayor’s Business Award, finalist for the 2024 Executive of the Year Women in Law Award, and 2025 Trailblazer of the Year at Law Biz Con.
