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Driving Offences
Had a Notice of Intended Prosecution, a court summons or a charge for a driving offence? What you do in the next few days matters.
Who you need
A motoring (road traffic) solicitor. Many quote a fixed fee for a guilty plea, a special-reasons argument or an exceptional-hardship plea to keep your licence.
What to do first
- Don't ignore the paperwork. A request to name the driver usually has to be answered within 28 days, and failing to reply is an offence in itself.
- Write down what happened while you still remember it: time, place, weather, signs and who was driving.
- Check how many points are already on your licence. Reaching 12 within three years usually means a ban under the 'totting up' rules.
- Get advice before you enter a plea if a ban, a large fine or your job is at stake.
Watch the clock
A Notice of Intended Prosecution generally has to reach the registered keeper within 14 days of the alleged offence, though there are exceptions.
Questions worth asking any lawyer
- What will this cost — fixed fee, hourly rate, or a share of any compensation?
- Who will actually do the work, and how often will I hear from you?
- Have you handled cases like mine, and what's a realistic outcome?
- Could I get this done for free through legal aid, insurance or a charity?
This guide is general information, not legal advice, and it can't take account of your circumstances. The law differs in England & Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and it changes. If something is urgent, speak to a solicitor — in an emergency, call 999.