What To Do If You Receive a TfL Verification Letter
1. Do Not Ignore the Letter
Ignoring the letter is not an option. If you fail to respond, Transport for London (TfL) may take legal action against you. Disregarding the issue will only make matters worse, potentially leading to prosecution or a heftier fine.
2. Be Honest and Explain the Situation
If you’ve been deliberately evading fares, the best approach is to respond honestly. While you should avoid admitting guilt unnecessarily, providing a clear explanation of your actions can show your willingness to resolve the matter. Consideration of TFL’s prosecution policy must be undertaken and applied to each unique case.
3. Seek Legal Advice
Given the potentially severe consequences of fare evasion—especially for long-term cases—it’s strongly recommended to consult a legal expert. Manak Solicitors can assist you by:
Drafting a thorough and effective response to the TfL Verification Letter whilst considering your mitigation.
What Happens After You Respond to the TfL Verification Letter?
Once you’ve sent your response, TfL will review your case and decide on the next steps. Possible outcomes include:
1. Case Closed Without Prosecution
If you’ve provided a satisfactory explanation and shown remorse, TfL might choose to resolve the case without further legal action.
This could involve:
- A warning
- Closing of the case
2. Prosecution
If TfL deems the offence serious or believes the fare evasion was intentional, they may proceed with prosecution. This could result in:
- Fines for fare evasion,
- Being charged under Railway Byelaws
- A criminal record that could impact your personal and professional life.
How Manak Solicitors Can Help You
At Manak Solicitors, we specialise in defending individuals facing fare evasion charges, including those who have been deliberately evading fares over a prolonged period.
Here’s how we can support you:
Legal Representation for Negotiation
We can help you craft a suitable response to TfL, aiming to obtain a warning instead of prosecution.
Expertise in Fare Evasion Laws
With in-depth knowledge of the Railway Byelaws, Fraud Act 2006, and Regulation of Railways Act 1889, we ensure your case is defended as effectively as possible.
Court Representation
If your case reaches court, we’ll represent you, leveraging our expertise to lessen the severity of penalties.
Protecting Your Reputation
We understand that a fare evasion conviction could have significant career implications for many clients. Our team handles your case with discretion and professionalism to safeguard your reputation.
Contact Manak Solicitors Today
If you’ve been evading fares for an extended period and have received a TfL Verification Letter, don’t risk costly errors. Contact Manak Solicitors today for expert advice, representation, and guidance throughout the process.
Contact us now for a consultation, and let us help you resolve your fare evasion case efficiently and professionally.
