If you’ve received an MG11 form for fare evasion, it’s crucial to understand your options going forward. The MG11 is a witness statement form used in criminal investigations, often issued by train companies like Southeastern or South Western Railway when investigating fare evasion. Your response to this form can significantly influence the outcome of your case, so acting promptly is essential.
At Manak Solicitors, we specialise in defending clients facing fare evasion investigations from various train operators, including Southeastern and South Western Railway. Whether you’re dealing with a penalty fare or potential prosecution, our expert team is here to guide you through the process. In this guide, we’ll explain how to settle a fare evasion case without waiting for a letter from your employer, why addressing the situation quickly is advantageous, and how we can help resolve the matter efficiently.
What is an MG11 Form?
An MG11 form is a witness statement typically issued during an investigation. If you’ve been caught evading fares on a Southeastern or South Western Railway service, this form is a key part of the process. It includes critical details such as:
- The date, time, and location of the alleged fare evasion.
- Your explanation for not having a valid ticket.
- Any additional information that might affect the case’s outcome.
Receiving this form indicates that the train company is formally investigating the incident. How you respond to the MG11 will play a major role in whether the case proceeds to court, is settled swiftly, or escalates into a more serious legal issue.
Can You Settle a Fare Evasion Case Without Waiting for a Letter from the train company?
While many people assume they must wait for a formal letter from the train company before taking action, you can often settle your fare evasion case beforehand. In fact, addressing the matter early is frequently more beneficial.
- Early Settlement Without Formal Prosecution In many cases, you can resolve your fare evasion case directly with Southeastern or South Western Railway before any formal letter is issued. By acknowledging the fare evasion and showing a willingness to resolve it, you may be able to settle the case without it progressing to criminal prosecution.
This might involve: - Agreeing to a settlement avoiding harsher legal consequences.
Taking swift action can often prevent the issue from escalating and allow for a simpler resolution.- Why You Shouldn’t Wait for a Letter from the train company
Waiting for a formal letter from the train company can delay resolution and worsen the situation. Here’s why acting quickly is preferable:
- Avoid a Criminal Record: If the case reaches court, it could lead to a criminal conviction. A conviction for fare evasion might harm your future career, particularly in regulated sectors. Settling early reduces this risk.
- Minimise Penalties: Delaying action often results in higher fines and more severe consequences. Addressing the issue promptly increases the likelihood of a reduced fine or penalty fare.
- Reduced Stress: Uncertainty can be stressful, especially while awaiting formal correspondence. Settling the case quickly lets you move on without the emotional burden of an ongoing investigation.
- Protect Your Employment: For those in regulated industries like finance or education, a criminal conviction could jeopardise your job. Resolving the case swiftly helps safeguard your professional reputation.
Why Should You Resolve Your Fare Evasion Case Quickly?
- Avoid a Criminal Record A major concern for those facing fare evasion charges is the risk of a criminal conviction. This can have lasting effects, including:
- Difficulty securing new employment, especially in roles requiring background checks.
- Travel restrictions to countries with strict visa rules.
- Damage to your personal and professional reputation. By settling your case quickly with Manak Solicitors’ help, you can avoid a criminal conviction and protect your future prospects.
- Minimise Fines and Penalties
Early settlement can often reduce the penalties you face. Agreeing to a penalty fare or settling with the train company outside of court could spare you substantial fines and the risk of harsher consequences.
If the case goes to court, you might face a much higher fine or, in extreme cases, imprisonment if the offence is considered severe.- Safeguard Your Career
In sectors where background checks are standard, a criminal record for fare evasion could limit your job opportunities. Resolving the case quickly allows you to move forward without worrying about career repercussions, which is especially vital for those in finance, education, or healthcare.- Alleviate Stress and Uncertainty
Facing a criminal investigation can be nerve-racking, particularly when the outcome is unclear. Acting swiftly gives you peace of mind, knowing your case is being handled effectively and the risk of escalation is reduced.
How Can Manak Solicitors Help You Settle Your Fare Evasion Case Quickly?
At Manak Solicitors, we specialise in helping clients resolve fare evasion cases efficiently and effectively, particularly with Southeastern and South Western Railway. We understand the complexities of fare evasion investigations and can guide you to the best possible outcome.
Here’s how we can assist:
- Early Negotiation with the Train Company Once we take on your case, we’ll immediately start negotiating with Southeastern or South Western Railway on your behalf. Our aim is to secure a penalty fare settlement or reduced fine, preventing the matter from escalating to criminal prosecution.
- Comprehensive Assessment of Your Case We’ll thoroughly review your case details, including the MG11 form, to determine the best approach.
- Minimise Legal Consequences Our primary goal is to reduce the penalties you face and avoid a criminal conviction. By settling early, we’ll negotiate the most favourable terms to ensure minimal impact on your life and career.
Contact Manak Solicitors Today
If you’ve received an MG11 form from Southeastern or South Western Railway regarding fare evasion, don’t delay taking action. Contact Manak Solicitors today for expert advice and representation. We’ll help you resolve your fare evasion case quickly and minimise the legal consequences.
Contact us now for a consultation. Let us help you settle your fare evasion case efficiently and protect your future.
Manak Solicitors
Phone: 01689 870769
Email: [email protected]
Website: manaksolicitors.co.uk/services/fare-evasion/
Address: 265 High Street, Orpington, BR6 0NW
Quote
