On Thu, 16 Oct 2008 19:15:13 +0100, reea
wrote:


I was caught using someone elses freedom pass in error instead of my own
oyster on London Underground. My details were taken but I wasn't given
an on the spot fine. i have only just recieved a summons. I used the
freedom pass in error, I happend to be carrying it on the day and used
the freedom pass instead of my own oyster card. I have a record on my
oyster card that on the first leg of my journey i used my oyster card -
the revenue inspector was not interested. The statement he has put
together is slightly inaccurate also. I am due in court in 4 weeks and
haven't a clue what to do. I have read many forums and some people are
saying to plead guilty to get a lighter fine. I'm not concerned about
the fine but the criminal record that may be attached to this event. I
also read that it could be an idea to call the prosecution manager and
to and plead an out of court settlement - is this something anyone
would recommend. Is it worth hiring a solicitor or should I represent
myself. It was a genuine error and I do not want to receive a criminal
record because of it. Can someone advise if found guilty and fined that
also means you get a criminal record? Or you can escape a criminal
record with just a fine. I am very muddled and I don't know what to
do, I'm absolutely terrified of what is going to happen. Any answers or
advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

There are a couple of newsgroups, uk.legal.moderated and uk.legal
which may give some advice. I think the suggestion to go to the
Citizens Advice is good. Mistakes happen, just stick to the truth,
don't embellish on it and maybe the court will accept your story.