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From compassionate guidance to tailored strategic advice, skilled dispute resolution, and efficient expertise, we provide more than legal services; we build trusted partnerships that put your needs first.
Are you facing charges for a motoring offence? Don’t navigate the complex legal system alone.
At Scarsdale Solicitors, we are here to provide you with expert legal advice and representation to protect your rights and minimise the consequences.
A motoring offence can feel daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. We stand by your side, offering clear guidance and committed representation to minimise the impact on your life.
Expert legal representation for all driving offences from minor speeding to serious dangerous driving.
Facing drink-driving charges? Our team works to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and reduce potential penalties.
Being charged with careless driving can be stressful. We’re here to support you, guide you through the process, and work to achieve the best possible outcome.
From running a red light to mobile phone use, we defend all traffic offences with clear advice and strong representation.
If your case has had an unfavourable outcome, our solicitors can assess your situation, identify valid grounds for appeal, and provide robust representation to seek a more positive resolution.
If your case has had an unfavourable outcome, our solicitors can assess your situation, identify valid grounds for appeal, and provide robust representation to seek a more positive resolution.
If you’ve received a speeding ticket, our solicitors can advise you on your options, assess the evidence, and provide skilled representation to safeguard your record.
Expert legal representation for all driving offences from minor speeding to serious dangerous driving.
Your Rights: Police can stop any vehicle. You must provide a specimen when required by law.
At the Police Station: You'll be required to provide an evidential specimen.
You'll either be charged immediately or receive a summons by post.
Court Appearance: You must attend in person (with very limited exceptions).
IMPLEMENTATION ISSUES:
Magistrates' Court Trial:
If you accept responsibility for the motoring offence, we can still help minimize the consequences through professional mitigation and exceptional hardship applications.
Understanding the motoring law and process helps you make informed decisions about your future.
Exceptional hardship is a legal argument to avoid a driving ban when you reach 12 penalty points (totting up) or face a mandatory ban. You must prove that a disqualification would cause exceptional hardship to you, your family, your employees, or others - beyond the normal inconvenience of losing your licence.
Successful arguments include:
Arguments that usually fail: General inconvenience, increased travel time, higher transport costs, or simply needing car for work (without evidence of dismissal).
We have achieved an 89% success rate with exceptional hardship applications through comprehensive evidence gathering and professional presentation. Each case is assessed individually and requires compelling evidence presented persuasively.
Yes - absolutely. Even with a failed test, there are numerous technical and procedural defences available. Common successful challenges include:
Our expert witnesses and forensic analysis frequently identify flaws in prosecution evidence. Many cases that appear "open and shut" have significant weaknesses when properly examined by specialists.
We recently defended a client who was 2.5 times over the limit. We challenged the breathalyzer calibration and discovered the device hadn't been serviced within the required timeframe. Case dismissed.
Mandatory minimum bans:
Discretionary bans:
These are minimum bans - courts can impose longer bans. However, with exceptional hardship arguments or successful technical defences, we can often avoid bans entirely or significantly reduce the disqualification period.
Drink Driving Ban Reductions: You may be eligible for drink driving rehabilitation course which reduces ban by 25% (e.g. 12 months reduced to 9 months). We advise on eligibility.
This depends on your employment contract and job requirements. If your contract states driving is essential, or if you're employed specifically as a driver, you may face dismissal. This forms a strong basis for an exceptional hardship argument.
We help clients gather evidence from employers including:
Important: Even if your employer is sympathetic, they may have insurance requirements that prevent employing banned drivers. Company vehicle insurance typically excludes disqualified drivers.
Recent Success: We represented a pharmaceutical sales rep whose territory covered rural areas with no public transport. Their employer confirmed dismissal would be inevitable. We presented comprehensive evidence including territory maps, client visit schedules, and employer letter. Exceptional hardship accepted - client kept licence and job.
Usually yes - your licence remains valid until court conviction and sentencing. However, there are important exceptions:
You CAN drive while awaiting court if:
You CANNOT drive if:
⚠️ CRITICAL: If convicted, the ban is effective immediately from the court date - you cannot drive home from court. Plan alternative transport for your court hearing.
If you're uncertain about your driving status, contact us immediately for confirmation. Driving while disqualified is a serious criminal offence with potential imprisonment.
We offer transparent fixed-fee packages for most motoring offences:
Initial consultation is free and we'll provide an accurate quote based on your case. Legal aid is not available for most motoring offences (available only for imprisonable offences if you qualify).
Is it worth it? Many clients find our fees are recovered many times over through:
Payment plans available. We also offer fixed-fee "second opinion" reviews if you're already represented elsewhere.
The distinction is crucial as penalties differ dramatically:
CARELESS DRIVING (Driving Without Due Care and Attention):
DANGEROUS DRIVING:
Why it matters: Prosecutors often overcharge dangerous driving when careless driving is more appropriate. We successfully argue for charge reduction in many cases, avoiding mandatory bans and potential imprisonment.
Recent Success: Client charged with dangerous driving after accident. We argued driving was momentary lapse (careless) not far below standard (dangerous). Prosecution accepted careless driving - client received fine and points instead of ban and potential custody.
Speed awareness courses are offered at police/prosecution discretion for minor speeding offences. Not everyone is eligible.
Eligibility Criteria:
Advantages of Course:
Disadvantages:
Should you accept? If offered a course AND you have a valid defence to speeding (e.g. faulty camera, incorrect speed limit, emergency), contact us before accepting. You cannot do the course and then challenge the offence - it's one or the other.
If you don't have a defence, courses are usually advantageous. However, if this would be your 4th course, or you're close to 12 points already, seek advice first.
Real stories from clients who trusted us with their most important cases. Your peace of mind is our greatest testimonial. Read what our clients share about their journey with us.
I would like to thank Shazia and the Scarsdale team. Super efficient, fast responding and knew exactly what to do in the situation I was in. Highly recommend for any immigration needs