So you’ve received it through the post, the dreaded summons or notice of prosecution has dropped on to your letterbox. So what will you do now?
When you face prosecution for death by dangerous driving or other driving misdemeanors, any wasted time could be detrimental, so my number 1 tip would be to act fast. I know the temptation is often to bury your head in the sand and hope it goes away, but from experience I know it won’t so be pro active and act now!
Similarly not having the highest quality representation can again leave you facing prosecution, a driving ban, or the prospect of losing your job, so my other big tip would be seek expert legal the right team on your side you can utilize a variety of legal areas including exceptional hardship, which may make the difference between the devastation of prosecution and the freedom to continue your life. In cases of exceptional hardship the Defendant must establish and present the severity and degree of hardship and it is for the Court to assess the severity of the implications and to decide whether that amounts to “hardship which is beyond that normally suffered”.
Even if there is exceptional hardship the Court still has a discretion whether to disqualify or not, but it can be for a reduced period or indeed no period at all. It is therefore imperative that the Court is presented with all relevant facts in an admissible and orderly fashion in readiness for the hearing; this will ensure the best possible chance of receiving a favorable result and will also avoid a lengthy and expensive appeal process.
Whether you need advice on totting up 12 points or advice on driving whilst unfit, it’s always best to seek professional advice, seek it quickly and tell them everything you know and provide all documentation. This allows your solicitor to help as much as they can by being fully informed from the beginning.
