If you are comfortable attending Court on your own, Motor Lawyers recommends the Self Representation service which covers everything you need to present your case confidently and successfully. With our assistance and advice, most clients are perfectly capable of presenting their own case and this can also increase the sympathy factor.
An experienced Motor Lawyer will discuss the case fully with you and clarify all steps required to improve your prospects of success in Court. We will guide you through all procedural issues, advise on the best way to deal with a Court appearance and prepare a bespoke script so you know what to say, and just as importantly, what not to say.
Clients who have used this service normally not only get a successful result, but are often complimented by the Court staff/Magistrates for taking the trouble to prepare their case properly.
- Review and advise on all procedural documents (to include all prosecution evidence, court paperwork, photographic evidence, your documents etc.), to ensure conformity and check for all potential technical errors or defences.
- Comprehensive telephone attendance (allow at least 1 hour) to obtain full details of the incident, clarify all aspects of your account, advise you fully in relation to tactics, implications, procedures and all other aspects required to progress your case fully.
- Advice on liaising with the Court to deal with all procedural issues.
- Guidance on obtaining evidence from Police/Process Unit/CPS.
- Guidance in relation to obtaining evidence to support your mitigation and reviewing evidence.
- Guidance on completing Statement of Means.
- Full guidance on how the case will progress, the roles of Court staff/prosecution and what to expect at the hearing.
- Detailed bespoke Crib Sheet/script for your use at Court, detailing each and every aspect of your case, full mitigation and when and how to present your evidence.
- Full ongoing support to include email / telephone advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is your fee?
The Self Representation service costs £495, including VAT.
Will I be able to represent myself?
In all probability you will be able to represent yourself in Court. Whilst it may appear a daunting task, given the correct guidance and advice on what to say/what not to say, most individuals can present a case in a perfectly acceptable manner.
What if I am not sure whether I should be represented by Counsel or represent myself?
If you are uncertain about whether you will need representation at Court, we suggest that you select the Self Representation service. If, during the discussion, it becomes apparent you would then prefer to have Counsel attend Court with you, we will upgrade you as necessary. This is the cheapest and most effective way of dealing with matters and ensures that you do not waste money on a service you may not require.
Can I simply apologise to the Court? Do I need to say anything else?
Whilst during the course of your submission, you will need to apologise for your driving error, the purpose of the hearing goes far beyond simply saying "sorry". For cases of this nature, the Court will expect properly prepared mitigation with a detailed explanation and submission which will greatly effect the penalty imposed.
Will the Court criticise me for obtaining assistance to prepare the case?
No. To the contrary, the Justices will be grateful that you have made the effort to prepare your case properly rather than attending unprepared and wasting Court time.
How long will my hearing last?
The length of a hearing will vary, but a minimum of 20 minutes is normally required to present a satisfactory Plea of Mitigation. More complicated hearings will obviously last longer but with the correct preparation and delivery, it is unlikely a case will exceed 40-60 minutes. However, you will not be expected to speak throughout as there will also be various procedural issues that have to be addressed.
What happens if my submission is rejected?
As part of the guidance / preparation provided, we will also advise on immediate steps to take should, for any reason, the Court reject your submission.
Can you draft a letter of mitigation for me to read to the Court?
No. The Plead by Post/Online service is specifically designed to resolve a case when no attendance is required. It is not appropriate for a personal attendance. A script/crib sheet is the most cost effective resolution in these circumstances and covers all aspects of your submission, tactics and preparation.