Case Examples

(All examples are anonymised and illustrative of the type of work undertaken)

Magistrates’ Court – Bail Secured in Serious Allegation

A client charged with a serious offence appeared before the Magistrates’ Court facing opposition to bail. The prosecution relied on the nature of the allegation and risk-based arguments.

We prepared and advanced a structured bail application, addressing risk, proposing conditions and supporting the application with evidence. Bail was granted, allowing the client to remain at liberty while proceedings continued.

Crown Court – Sentencing Outcome Limited

A client appeared before the Crown Court for sentencing following conviction for a serious offence. The prosecution sought a custodial sentence based on aggravating features.

We prepared detailed mitigation, challenged elements of the prosecution’s case, and presented the client’s personal and professional circumstances. The court imposed a sentence significantly below that sought by the prosecution, avoiding the most severe outcome.

POCA Proceedings – Third-Party Interests Protected

A third party appeared before the Crown Court in connection with POCA proceedings affecting jointly owned property. A restraint order prevented sale of the family home and risked depriving the innocent party of their interest.

We represented the third party at court, advanced submissions on ownership and contribution, and applied for a variation of the restraint order. The court permitted the sale of the property and secured the third party’s share of the proceeds.

Account Freezing Order – Proportionality Challenged

A client attended the Magistrates’ Court in connection with an Account Freezing Order affecting business accounts. The order significantly disrupted trading.

We challenged the evidential basis and proportionality of the order at court. The scope of the order was restricted, allowing the client to access funds necessary for business and living expenses.

Trial – Allegation Not Proved

A client faced trial in the Magistrates’ Court for an offence arising from a domestic dispute. The prosecution case relied heavily on conflicting witness evidence.

We prepared the case carefully, identified inconsistencies and evidential gaps, and ensured the defence position was clearly advanced at trial. The court found that the prosecution had not proved the case to the required standard and the client was acquitted.

Motoring and Road Traffic Case Examples

(All examples are anonymised and illustrative of the type of work undertaken)

Speeding Allegation – Professional Driver Avoided Disqualification

A professional client faced a speeding allegation that placed them at risk of disqualification under the totting-up provisions. The client’s employment depended on retaining their driving licence and disqualification would have resulted in loss of livelihood.

We advised on plea, examined the circumstances of the offence, and prepared a structured exceptional hardship argument supported by documentary evidence. The court accepted that disqualification would cause hardship beyond that ordinarily suffered and allowed the client to retain their licence.

Drink Driving – Sentencing Mitigation Advanced

A client was charged with driving whilst over the prescribed alcohol limit following a roadside stop. The client accepted responsibility at an early stage but was concerned about the impact of disqualification on employment and family life.

We advised on plea and prepared detailed mitigation, including personal circumstances, remorse and steps taken since the offence. The court imposed a reduced period of disqualification and imposed financial penalties proportionate to the client’s means.

Exceptional Hardship – Totting-Up Avoided

A client accumulated penalty points placing them at risk of a mandatory six-month disqualification. The client had dependants and caring responsibilities and relied on their vehicle for both employment and family commitments.

We prepared and advanced an exceptional hardship application, supported by evidence and oral submissions. The court accepted that the consequences of disqualification would extend beyond the client to innocent third parties and exercised its discretion to allow the client to retain their licence.

Causing Serious Injury by Dangerous Driving – Case Strategy

A client was charged with causing serious injury by dangerous driving following a road traffic collision. The allegation carried the risk of a custodial sentence and immediate reputational damage.

We advised at the earliest stage, and engaged in detailed preparation of the case. Expert evidence and factual issues were identified early, allowing the client’s position to be properly advanced and mitigating factors to be preserved for court proceedings.

Use of a Mobile Phone Whilst Driving – Allegation Contested

A client faced prosecution for using a mobile phone whilst driving, an offence carrying mandatory penalty points and potential disqualification due to existing points.

We examined the evidence relied upon by the prosecution, including officer observations and device usage. Issues were identified regarding the nature of the alleged use and the evidential threshold. The matter was resolved without the most severe consequences being imposed.

Failure to Provide Information – Statutory Defence Raised

A client was prosecuted for failing to provide driver details following a notice of intended prosecution. The client denied knowingly receiving the notice and faced penalty points and a fine.

We advised on the statutory defence, assisted in gathering supporting evidence, and advanced submissions explaining the circumstances. The court accepted the explanation and the client avoided conviction.

Strategic Advice in Motoring Cases

Our approach to motoring and road traffic matters is built on:

• Early advice on plea and procedure

• Careful analysis of prosecution evidence

• Robust mitigation where appropriate

• Clear advice on licence and insurance consequences

• Protection of employment and livelihood where possible

We are acutely aware that even minor motoring matters can have disproportionate consequences, particularly for professionals, business owners and those who rely on their driving licence.