Dear all,
I went over numerous threads here concerning fare evasion and couldn't find the answer to my question so opening a new thread, apologies if this has been asked before.
I've been caught on a London bus without a valid ticket.
A simple honest mistake of forgetting my wallet at home.
I would have normally gotten off the bus if it wouldn't have been for my 7 year old daughter who was with me and was very tired.
We intended to travel two stops only I decided to stay on - big mistake!
I was approached by a ticket inspector and apologised for not having a ticket and gave him my details.
I wasn't offered an fine on the spot
- he only said that I will be reported to which I have replied OK and asked his permission to get off the bus as we have reached our destination.
Next thing I know, I receive a summon to court asking me to plead guilty/not guilty and pay a £225 fine.
It is my first offence.
Needless to say, I was horrified and worried.
I'm also broke which doesn't help either...
My question
- is it possible at this point to write to someone (and to whom exactly) to ask to be settled out of court?
Do I need a solicitor for that?
From reading previous threads I understand that if you plead guilty and pay the fine you get a criminal record.
Are there any other options at his point?
Many thanks in advance for your advice.