Penalty Charges on Trains

[tomterm8]

I'm not concerned so much about proving who was right and wrong or avoiding a penalty charge or a court fine. I understand that the facts say i was not in possesion of a valid ticket etc.

 

I'm concerned with having a criminal record for this.

 

it's a real pity that you admitted sonmething you basically didn't do... however, until you recieve a penalty notice or summons, there is really not much you can do.

[tomterm8]

Then I would be worried about a court fine as you will have a crimminal record if you get one. It seems to me your only way out of it is to defend it to the hilt.

 

I think it's rather too early to say as yet... there are two methods they can use; sending you a penalty notice, and/or sending a summons. in most cases they send you a penalty notice which costs £20+admin fee + ticket price... so maybe £60. If they do this, then you should pay it. In that case, I don't think you get a criminal record.

 

If they do decide to prosecute you, and you settle out of court, there will be no criminal record.

[tomterm8]

Um, i disagree.

 

The rail bylaws are fairly clear, and it is a criminal offence. The penalty fee argument is irrelevant, because there is actually a criminal penalty set by parliament.