Trials
If you are involved in a contested trial in relation to a motoring matter then your fixed fee will start at £1,500 plus VAT for non-complex half-day trials.
Full day trials will attract a fixed fee starting at £2,500 plus VAT for non-complex cases.
For trials that last for longer than a day, representation will typically be charged at a fixed fee of £2,000 plus VAT for each additional day and £1,000 plus VAT for each half day.
Representation in the Magistrates Court for Trial will include the following:
- A two hour meeting meeting with you prior to the trial to advise you in relation to the evidence in your case and the trial process
- Taking a “proof of evidence” (a written version of your account relating to the alleged offence) from you
- Identifying any defence witnesses and if necessary warning them to attend trial and taking statements from them
- Representing you at Court for your trial and conducting the defence of your case at trial
- Advising you in relation to whether there is any merit in appealing your conviction or your sentence if you are found guilty
All of our qualified lawyers are experienced trial advocates and capable of conducting your trial to an excellent standard. However, if you wish to instruct a barrister to conduct your case then their fee would be in addition to our fee for preparing the case for trial.
If you are found guilty following a trial then an additional sentencing hearing may be necessary if the Court is unable to deal with sentencing on the same day. Representation at a sentencing hearing following trial would attract a further fixed fee of £200 plus VAT.
The fees quoted above represent a minimum due for non-complex matters. Cases which require significant amounts or preparation may attract fixed fees higher than this.
Please note that additional costs of third parties such as expert medical or accident reconstruction reports are not included in the above fees. Such costs will be discussed with you and agreed prior to any instruction.
Many cases involve more than one appearance at Court and you will be quoted accordingly for additional Court representation over and above the first Magistrates Court hearing, be it on a fixed fee or hourly rate basis. The requirement for an additional hearing may be outside of our control. Often the Court will list a case for “Mention” in order to resolve an issue that has arisen ahead of the trial. For example, if a witness has indicated that they cannot attend trial on the date that it is listed for, or if the Prosecution has failed to provide all of the evidence to us ahead of the trial.
The above fees may be increased if there is additional travel involved attending a Court outside of Cheshire.
Contact our team today for further information on fees