Hi all, I've been a bit of an idiot.
I was recently caught riding on an oyster card outside zone 6. I touched in in Zone 3 and then travelled a few stations outside of the oyster, where I got caught by a revenue protection officer. I panicked a bit, and initially lied about where I got on and gave a wrong address, but then under caution gave correct details, which were confirmed when my oyster was checked. I also basically admitted that I'd tried to avoid paying the fare, which is stupid I know, but I was nervous and not thinking straight. The operating company in question is south west trains.
Anyway, I know that I've got to wait a few weeks until the letter comes through, but I was wondering whether anyone has much experience in these matters, specifically how likely they are to take the matter to court versus accept a settlement. It's my first offence, so I'm hoping that they'll accept an out of court settlement, as a criminal record could potentially screw me up since I sometimes have to travel to the U.S with work, however I'm aware that my idiotic behaviour has basically given them a cast iron case should they choose to pursue the matter further.
Should I be seeking legal advice?
Cheers