Driving Without Insurance Solicitor in Macclesfield

The first question is whether you were insured after all. A valid policy or cover note in force at the time is a complete answer to the charge. Policies are sometimes shown incorrectly on the database, cancelled without proper notice, or extended to cover other vehicles in ways the police do not see at the roadside.

If someone else, such as your employer or a hire company, was responsible for arranging cover, that can also be relevant to the charge.

Many of these prosecutions arise from genuine confusion: a policy that was believed to be in force, a company vehicle the employer said was covered, a broker cancellation never received. If you honestly and reasonably believed you were insured, and that belief was induced by someone else, the court can find special reasons.

Where special reasons are found, the court can decline to endorse any points. For a driver close to 12 points, or whose job depends on driving, that can make a very real difference. The argument has to be prepared carefully with documents and, usually, evidence from you in court.

Driving without insurance carries 6 to 8 penalty points and a fine, and the court has a discretion to disqualify instead. Six points on its own can be enough to reach 12 if you already have points, which brings in a totting up disqualification. New drivers within two years of passing their test should also be aware that 6 points can lead to their licence being revoked.

Police can also seize a vehicle being driven without insurance, and if it is not reclaimed with valid cover and the fees paid, it can be destroyed. If your car has been seized, act quickly and keep every document relating to your insurance.

Macclesfield no longer has its own magistrates' court: the GOV.UK court finder confirms that Macclesfield Magistrates' Court is no longer in service and its business has transferred to neighbouring courts. Motoring cases from Macclesfield are usually heard at Crewe (South Cheshire) Magistrates' Court, The Law Courts, Civic Centre, Crewe CW1 2DT, or at Stockport Magistrates' Court.

Your charge sheet, postal requisition or single justice procedure notice will confirm which court your case is listed at and the date. Sean attends both Crewe and Stockport and will explain exactly what to expect on the day.

Sean helps clients across Macclesfield, Wilmslow, Congleton, Poynton and Knutsford. Because there is no longer a magistrates' court in the town, having a solicitor who already knows the courts your case can be sent to matters.

The first conversation is a free phone call, and most advice can be given by phone or video, so you do not need to travel to get a clear view of your options. You deal with Sean directly from start to finish.

This page is general information, not legal advice on your case. Every case depends on its own facts, so speak to Sean about your situation before you decide anything.

STR Legal Ltd is a consultancy, not an SRA-regulated law firm. Legal services are provided through SRA-regulated law firms, as explained on our how we work page.