Frequently Asked Questions

You will receive a court date at the Magistrates’ Court. The paperwork will include the charge, a short case summary and instructions on how to enter a plea.

Speak to a solicitor before you respond. Early advice can change how you deal with the case and the outcome.

For most offences, yes. Some matters start under the Single Justice Procedure (SJP) which is a paper-based process, but these can still move to a full hearing.

We explain when you must attend in person and when we can appear on your behalf.

It depends on:

• The type of offence
• The evidence
• Your driving record

A lot of offences lead to a driving disqualification. Some offences, such ass drink and drug driving, carry a mandatory disqualification. Others involve penalty points which can trigger a totting-up disqualification if you reach 12 or more points. We assess your risk of disqualification at the start and explain the realistic outcomes.

Sometimes. Options can include:

• Defending the allegation
• Mitigation (arguing for a lower penalty)
• Exceptional hardship (totting-up cases)
• Special reasons arguments

We tell you which, if any, are available and worthwhile in your situation. Where there is a possibility of avoiding a disqualification, this will always be our priority. We believe in keeping all options open as this gives you a greater chance of achieving a successful outcome. 

Do not decide on plea based only on the police summary. That document is often brief and one-sided.

We review the charge, the evidence and sentencing guidelines. We then advise you on the risks and benefits of each option. In our view, everyone should at least review some of the evidence against them before making their final decision. 

The SJP is a process where a magistrate considers your case based on paperwork only, usually for lower-level offences like speeding, failing to identify the driver and no insurance.

If you face a possible ban, dispute the allegation or plead not guilty, the case will usually be moved to a standard court hearing. Your case will also go to a court hearing if you plead guilty but wish to present mitigation in court. 

Yes. We can advise based on the charge and initial paperwork, then review the full evidence once it is disclosed. We can also request further evidence that the police or prosecution must provide.

Most Magistrates’ Court cases reach a first hearing within about 6–12 weeks of charge. Contested trials can take 6–12 months to conclude, and Crown Court appeals often take longer. Once we know the type of case and the court involved, we’ll give you a realistic timetable for your case.

Keep every document you are given, including:

• Charge or court summons
• Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP)
• Any forms or statements

Contact us as soon as possible. What you say and do in the early stages can affect your options later.

Legal aid is very limited in motoring cases. Most drivers do not qualify. We act on a fixed-fee basis instead, so you know the cost from the outset.

Yes. We act for drivers across England and Wales, attending court in person  and offering remote meetings where appropriate.