Kent Traffic Law Bewertungen 

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

Vor 1 Tag

It is not easy to establish that you, as a motorist, and those who depend upon you, would collectively suffer from 'exceptional hardship' were you to be disqualified from driving. However, that is the hurdle that has to be overcome to avoid a penalty points disqualification. Furthermore, the burden of proof in this regard shifts from the prosecution to the defence (which is not the norm in the criminal courts). Special rules apply to such cases meaning that usually the motorist has to personally give evidence on oath. This means that you can expect to be questioned on oath either by a prosecutor or the court. Such cases should be prepared carefully in advance as most people have no experience whatsoever of giving evidence on oath.

In your case I dealt with your case from the first phone call, through to our in-person meeting, through to representation in court. This ensures continuity of advice and representation from start to finish. It doesn't guarantee the outcome you seek but usually means that you stand the best possible chance of a positive outcome. With so much at stake it's essential to optimise case preparation and presentation.

I am really pleased that you obtained the desired outcome. Thank you very much indeed for taking the trouble to post this thoughtful review.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

8. Okt. 2026

Your case was the same as all others in that I, personally, speak to enquirers initially to assess the situation. Although the initial discussion is not formal legal advice, as I don't know enough about the case at that stage, I can often make helpful comment about steps which should be taken sooner rather than later. This also ensures that if you do engage my help there are no misunderstandings.

In your mobile phone case we met for me to take full instructions from you. I advised you then that certain matters needed to be put in writing if you were to stand any real chance of winning your case. You followed my advice which meant that by today, when your case was heard at Sevenoaks Magistrates' Court, you were in a far better position than you otherwise would have been. Fortunately, you obtained the desired result in relation to the phone allegation.

I am bound to say that every single client deserves for his or her case to be dealt with expertly and conscientiously. I deal with all cases from start to finish in that, if booked for court, I do not send agents. So, although all clients can expect the same level of attention there is one thing they cannot expect from me: a lift home! I wasn't going to drive past you on the roadside, waiting for a lift, when I knew I would be driving past your home. However, that is the first time I have ever done that in over 35 years. So, you're probably the only one who will ever receive that unique benefit. All others can expect my best efforts but will have to make their own way home after court....

Thank you for your review.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

30. Sept. 2026

By the time you got in touch you had already appeared in court, your sentencing had been adjourned, and, the court had given a provisional indication of how seriously it viewed the case. I deal with all enquiries personally to ensure that I understand the case, and, to ensure that the client also has a good understanding; it’s no use taking on cases in which the client is hopelessly optimistic or pessimistic. Once I am confident that we have a good understanding only then will I take on a case.

I believe it is essential to meet clients face to face to take full instructions both on the case itself and on their personal circumstances. Only then can I prepare thoroughly for the hearing. We did that in your case and I advised you on the range of options open to the court as well as to steps you should take in advance of the hearing to put yourself in a better position.

On the day we met early at court to make sure everything was in order. I'm pleased you felt supported throughout and that the court accepted the defence mitigation in full. With a charge this serious the range of sentences is very wide and so I was delighted that you received the most lenient sentence the law allowed.

Thank you for leaving such a thoughtful review.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

30. Sept. 2026

As with many new drivers it was you, his mother, who made the initial enquiry. Once you had explained matters to me I set out the range of options open to the court. As with many such situations it would be a case of seeking to persuade the court not to order the endorsement of 6 penalty points as this would result in licence revocation; meaning that re-taking the theory and then the practical tests becomes the only route back to driving. Of course, given that waiting lists are at record lengths this is an entirely unacceptable option for most people especially those who cannot do without the ability to drive for protracted periods.

Your son engaged my services and we arranged to meet in person to go through the facts of the offence as well as your son’s background. Once I had taken full instructions upon these matters I then suggested certain steps were taken in advance of the court hearing ie steps that, in the position of your son, meant that the court would be more likely to accede to our submissions.

When the court date arrived we all met early to ensure all was in order. I popped into the court room early to let them know we were present and ready and we were, therefore, called on early in the list. Fortunately, the defence submissions were accepted in full as the court sentenced your son just as we had suggested; ie a short ban was imposed meaning he would be back behind the wheel within a month. This disposal also meant that he wouldn’t even need to re-apply for his licence.

These outcomes are never guaranteed as the sentencing guidelines for new drivers mean that the courts often insist on ordering the endorsement of 6 penalty points to oblige the Defendant to re-take his tests and to deter him from acting in the same way again. The purpose of taking such care in preparing a case, as set out above, is to minimise the chance that they will do this although there is never a guarantee. I am pleased the court sentenced your son in accordance with the defence submissions.

Thank you for taking the time to post such a thoughtful review.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

17. Aug. 2026

It's worrying to receive this type of notice in the post alleging speeding as such offences, if regarded as minor, are usually dealt with by way of Fixed Penalty Notice. So, the receipt of a Single Justice Procedure Notice often indicates that the police take a serious view of the offence which is why they are taking the first step towards court proceedings. However, sometimes a well written plea in mitigation results in points and a fine without ever being called into court. This is what happened here. This means that not only did you avoid a ban but you also avoided the costs of going to court as, in the end, it was dealt with on paper. The desired outcome! Thank you for taking the trouble to post this review.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

10. Aug. 2026

Often when young adults are involved it's an anxious parent who contacts me initially (as in your case). We would normally discuss the matter in outline so that I can give initial guidance on the phone. If a formal instruction follows we then arrange an in-person meeting. Again, often one or more parents attend. Once we have considered the case papers together and I have the client's full instructions I can give formal advice on the outlook and the way forward. Of course, there is then an anxious wait until the court date although, hopefully, you then have the reassurance that you are in professional hands and that everything possible will be done at court to secure the best possible outcome. As a barrister I personally attend court (rather than sending agents). Again, I feel this gives the client the reassurance of knowing that they don't have to deal with a stranger on what could be a very trying occasion. On the day, as you outline above, matters went as well as we could reasonably have hoped thereby navigating a potentially difficult day with the least amount of stress, and the best outcome, possible. Thank you very much indeed for taking the time and trouble to set out your experiences. It is appreciated.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

30. Juli 2026

Thank you for taking the time to leave a detailed and kind review. Facing a potential 6 month driving ban is an incredibly stressful experience especially when your livelihood is on the line. While we knew the case had its challenges, (often loss of job for a single man isn't enough to establish 'exceptional hardship'), I am thrilled that we were able to keep you on the road and in employment. I know how much this meant to you and so am genuinely pleased the court was understanding in your case. May I wish you all the very best for the future.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

Aktualisiert am 30. Juli 2026

Penalty Points Disqualifications are usually for a minimum of 6 months. For those with jobs and / or businesses dependent on driving the cost of such bans can be life changing. It's for this reason that I personally handle cases from start to finish; I take the first call, I meet the client face to face, and, subject to being booked for court, I personally attend. I do NOT instruct barristers' chambers to send agents. (As a barrister myself, formerly in London chambers, I know solicitors make prolific use of agent barristers to cover their cases). I believe this process of dealing with a case from start to finish tends to result in better outcomes for clients. Therefore, your comment above,

'I believe I wouldn't have won my case without him',

is much appreciated; only someone who has gone through this stressful process from start to finish is really able to give an informed opinion. Thank you very much for your review.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

10. Juli 2026

When clients call I try to gain an outline of the case and then guide them, provisionally, as to the best way forward. In your case you then booked a formal meeting. As you state I do not delegate this to junior staff, as many firms do, as this fact finding stage can be critical to the outcome. In your case we realised there was a possible winning strategy and followed that path during our preparation. At court, I personally represent clients; I do not delegate to agents as I believe continuity of advice and representation from one, senior, advocate is likely to lead to better outcomes. I was very pleased this proved to be the case with you. Thank you very much for leaving your review.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

8. Juni 2026

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a detailed review. In my direct-access practice, I handle everything personally from start to finish. When you first call, you speak directly to me—not a salesperson or a receptionist—because I believe you deserve genuine legal insight from the very first moment.

It was clear from our first conversation that your career and livelihood were on the line. Defending allegations of careless driving in the Magistrates' Court can be an uphill battle once a prosecution is set in motion, but given what was at stake, I was determined to help you fight it.

When we met face-to-face to analyse the cyclist's camera footage, the prosecution's case looked challenging. However, by carefully breaking down the video and taking your detailed instructions, we were able to demonstrate that it was actually the cyclist who had completely disregarded the Highway Code. More importantly, we proved that your actions—especially considering the safety of your elderly passengers—were entirely careful and competent.

Trials can be unpredictable, and the courtroom environment that day presented its own challenges. However, thorough preparation paid dividends. Bit by bit, we shifted the perspective of the court. After a tense wait during their deliberations, the Magistrates returned the verdict we sought: ‘Not Guilty’.

Your comment about the traditional system is spot on. Had you gone through a firm of solicitors, your brief might well have been handed to a junior barrister the night before the trial. Having previously worked within that traditional system myself, I set up my direct-access practice specifically to eliminate that risk. My clients get consistent, senior representation from me from day one.

I am incredibly pleased that your licence and your career remain intact. For anyone else facing a similar situation, I invite them to ring for an initial, no-obligation review of their case. Thank you again for your instructions and for this excellent recommendation.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

27. Mai 2026

At 120mph the speed is so far above the limit that the court is entitled to impose a ban in excess of the 'normal' 56 day guideline. Therefore, a reasonable aim would be to restrict any ban to that duration. In your case, given the submissions made in court, they simply ordered the endorsement of 6 penalty points. Thank you for your review.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

Aktualisiert am 17. Apr. 2026

Thank you very much for your kind review. Being involved in a motoring incident is stressful enough, but receiving a Notice requiring you to identify the driver— listing a range of potential offences—can be truly overwhelming. It is a situation many motorists find themselves in, often feeling as though the system has already taken a side.

Many people feel compelled to fill in the optional 'circumstances' box without expert legal guidance, unaware that providing a statement can often, inadvertently, strengthen the case for prosecution. I am very glad you requested a formal consultation before taking that step.

Drawing on my experience from both sides of the courtroom, I aimed to ensure your response was framed strategically, focusing on the nuances that police and prosecutors look for. Now you have been good enough to inform me that the police have written to you formally notifying you that they intend to take no further action. This was the best possible outcome and means that the prospect of a drawn-out and stressful prosecution has been lifted from your shoulders.

Even if the police had decided to prosecute you you would have been able to base your defence upon the account set out in writing in our response. In my experience, setting out in writing an authoritative early account usually pays very good dividends in terms of a more favourable outcome.

It was a pleasure assisting you.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

2. Apr. 2026

You originally rang me some months ago and, although only based on a quick summary of your situation over the phone, I did not expect your case to be easy. We met in person for me to take detailed instructions and for me to advise you on the merits of your case. I also advised you of steps to take in advance of the hearing so that your case could be better presented. In this type of case, in which 'exceptional hardship' has to be proved by the Defence, it is critical that you, the client, fully understand what to expect in court as you have to be prepared to give evidence on oath and to be cross-examined on oath.

At court, you managed this well as you faced a hostile magistrate. However, we persevered with the application and came up trumps in the end! It's only after going through this exhausting and trying experience that you realise what is involved; no amount of reading up on the internet can prepare you. You did well in court and deserved the favourable outcome.

Thank you for posting this review.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

2. Apr. 2026

Parents often approach me when their sons or daughters run into trouble with their licences. A common scenario is that of the new driver who has accumulated, or is about to accumulate, 6 penalty points within the first two years of passing the driving test as this results in automatic revocation of licence. Of course, many youngsters find themselves in the situation where licence revocation, and the indefinite delay pending re-sits, effectively means loss of job.

The first thing to do is not to panic. However, serious the case there will be a way to make the most of the situation. So, the first thing to do is to obtain expert guidance. In my case, as you know, I will speak to anyone at risk of loss of licence without charge for an initial telephone review. Whereas this does not amount to formal legal advice, it does, very often point the client towards a potential solution that had not even been considered. This was the case with your son.

We then met for me to take detailed instructions and to give formal advice. All of the advice was followed by you and we all met at court a few weeks later for the fateful day in court. It was stressful for you, I know. However, the stress soon dissipated once we had obtained the outcome which enabled your son to keep his job.

In my practice I deal with everything (from the first call to representing you in court.) In this way there are no surprises and we can follow a strategy from start to finish. I am pleased this worked so well.

Thank you for posting your review.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

5. März 2026

New Drivers who have 6 points endorsed for offences committed within 2 years of passing the test automatically face licence revocation. This means both the theory and practical tests have to be passed before driving again. Often such a delay means loss of job with all that that means for family and dependents. Therefore, most new drivers are extremely anxious to avoid licence revocation.

With all enquiries I personally discuss matters on the phone at the outset to see how I can help. I quote fixed fees. If the client wishes to proceed we meet face to face to plan a strategy. Once we have worked out a plan I then advise on steps to take in advance of the court hearing.

We met early at court on the day of the hearing. In my practice I personally attend; I do not brief junior barristers to attend at the last minute. I tend to find that continuity of advice and representation from start to finish tends to result in better outcomes. Fortunately, in your case this was how it worked out. I am pleased you obtained the outcome you sought.

Thank you very much for your review.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

Aktualisiert am 13. Feb. 2026

When a motorist calls who is genuinely in fear of loss of licence, as opposed to someone who is simply trying to avoid a trivial penalty such as 3 points and a fine, I take some time, perhaps up to about 20 minutes, to discuss the situation. I don't consider it formal legal advice as there is insufficient time to take full instructions and advise. However, I can usually help the client decide whether they actually need to pay for a consultation or not. Often I find that I can help to clarify matters so that, in fact, the motorist may not need to book a consultation with me or anyone else (which was the case with you.) If, however, a consultation is booked we both know that it is worthwhile to do so as we have made sufficient headway in our first call to make that assessment. I am very pleased I was able to assist you. Thank you for leaving your review.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

11. Feb. 2026

Sometimes the courts and cps move slowly and knowing whom to contact and when can hold the key. I am really pleased, in this case, that you have been informed that the cps case has been withdrawn. I was more than happy to answer your questions, as best I could, over the last few months since appearing in court. Thank you very much for your review.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

29. Jan. 2026

The courts follow sentencing guidelines which usually mean that single men, in similar situations to yours, often stand little chance of avoiding a 6 month penalty points disqualification. When motorists enquire I personally deal with the call. I take the time to understand the situation the caller is in rather than delegate this task to a salesman; how else can I assess whether I can assist? How else can I suggest it would, or wouldn’t be, in the interests of the client to engage my services?
In your case it sounded like the odds were clearly against you, in terms of avoiding a penalty points disqualification, as I told you when you first rang. However, you had mentioned, albeit briefly, an ‘unusual back story’, as you refer to it, and this did make me wonder if we might, possibly, be able to upset the odds in court.

With my clients, as you know, I meet them personally to take full instructions. I don’t delegate this task, as many do, to a paralegal or clerk far less would I consider obtaining instructions by correspondence as some solicitors do. This way we ensure that I fully understand your case and you can fully understand the advice I give you which, as you know, can include the taking of further steps in advance of the court hearing (which depends on the merits of the case.) I can also advise you in advance of the hearing what to expect on the day in court.

On the day of the hearing, again, I personally attend. I do not, as most solicitors do, brief agents, such as local solicitors or junior barristers, to attend on my client’s behalf. This way I can ensure there are no misunderstandings and that the client’s case is put forward as we have jointly planned. I had advised you of the court procedure and what would be expected of you in court. You gave evidence on oath before I made a closing address to the court seeking to put your case as persuasively as possible.

Fortunately, you were successful and, as the court said, ‘most unusually’ for a single man, they did find ‘exceptional hardship’ applied. I am pleased you avoided a ban, saved your job and kept your life on track!

Thank you for taking the time to post your review. It was a pleasure to represent you.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

16. Jan. 2026

As a “New Driver”, any endorsement of 6 penalty points for offences committed within the first two years of passing a driving test results in automatic licence revocation. Given the current, lengthy waiting times to re-sit a test, this can have very serious consequences, including loss of employment or income. In light of your particular circumstances, we therefore agreed that it was far preferable to invite the court to impose a short, immediate disqualification instead of penalty points.

We met so that I could take full instructions from you, and I advised you on the specific steps you could take to strengthen your position before the hearing. I then attended Margate Magistrates’ Court to represent you personally — with Kent Traffic Law, there is no risk of a last-minute substitute advocate, as I deal with all court cases myself.
The court accepted everything that was put forward on your behalf and was clearly impressed by the steps you had taken since committing the offence. At a speed of 41mph in a 30mph limit, the sentencing guideline provided for either a disqualification of 7–28 days or the endorsement of 4–6 penalty points. For the reasons explained above, we sought a ban rather than points.

The fact that the court imposed only a 7-day disqualification — right at the bottom of the guideline range — showed that the bench took a very favourable view of you. Even more unusually, the court chose not to impose any fine at all, which is something I have not previously encountered in a case of this nature. It demonstrates that when a case is carefully prepared and clearly presented, the outcome can sometimes be even better than hoped for.

Thank you for your kind review. May I wish you every success in future.

Antwort von Kent Traffic Law

Aktualisiert am 7. Jan. 2026

If you have 6 penalty points already, and commit another offence which could be dealt with by a further 6 points, then you run the risk of a penalty points disqualification ie a ban of at least 6 months. If the only way to avoid such a ban is by proving that you would suffer 'exceptional hardship' then it can be tempting to start preparing for that eventuality especially if you are advised to do so by a series of solicitors on the phone. This was your situation when you rang me some weeks ago. Upon taking the time to learn of your situation it became apparent to me that your chances of establishing you would suffer 'exceptional hardship' were remote. Accordingly, I suggested to you that the better approach would be to try to persuade the court to endorse fewer than 6 points so that you would avoid a ban altogether. This made sense to you and so you instructed me and we met face to face for me to take full details from you about your case. I then advised you of further steps to take before the hearing (which you took). I am not a solicitor; I am a sole trader barrister and I don't accept cases unless I am able to personally attend at court to represent my clients. I do not send junior or local agents to attend on my behalf as solicitors usually do. This ensures that you don't find a stranger representing you at court (which can be disconcerting). At court I conveyed your mitigation and the court accepted everything put forward on your behalf. The gent whose case was called on before you was unrepresented and made an 'exceptional hardship' submission; based on what he said in court he clearly had a case worth considering but it was very poorly prepared and presented. He was disqualified from driving (which, according to him, meant he would lose his business). Fortunately, you didn't need to establish 'exceptional hardship' as you didn't reach 12 points in the first place!

After the case you told me how all of the solicitors firms you had rung had told you you should prepare to make an 'exceptional hardship' submission and that you were greatly appreciative that you had rung me and adopted a different strategy. (I don't know if those you spoke to were qualified lawyers or simply those dealing with the sales calls.) I speak to all potential clients when they first call and give my provisional thoughts on the best approach to adopt. The most expensive way forward isn't necessarily going to be the best approach. I am very pleased that in your case our strategy paid handsome dividends. Thank you for your review.