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Dan Carter's drink-driving fine was on 'lower-end' of possible penalty - report

December 19, 2017

Dan Carter says 2017 has been a year of highs and lows, but he's determined to get back on track next season.

All Blacks legend Dan Carter was given a "lower-end" fine for his French drink driving charge, according to a French journalist who has seen previously hidden documents for the first time.

Catherine Field told Newstalk ZB that she made two applications to a French court to see the information regarding Carter's case.

Carter was pulled over by police in Paris in February this year and found to be twice over the legal limit.

Richard Escot is adamant that Dan Carter's indiscretion won't leave him offside with the French rugby public.

Field said the details in Carter's trial remained hidden after Carter's lawyers asked for the hearing to be private.

"No public were allowed into the court room. I appealed that decision and today we received details of it," she said.

"It's interesting that none of this has come out into the public domain. I had to apply twice even under the official freedom of information act to get this one document.

Kiwi-born Tony Marsh spoke about the recent troubles of ex-All Blacks playing in France, and the impact it has on NZ rugby.

"It seems Dan Carter got a €1000 fine [$1682], which to be honest is at the lower end of what the judge could have given. You generally expect a €4000 to €4500 fine."

Carter took to Facebook after the incident to apologise for his actions, saying he was glad no one was harmed.

"I am sure a lot of you have seen the headlines," Carter wrote at the time.

"No excuses - I made a massive error of judgment and have let down my club, my fans and most importantly my family."

Carter is headed to Japan next year after leaving French club Racing 92 to join the Kobe Steelers.

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