Fare evasion defence
A letter from TfL or the railway? Breathe, then act.
Most fare evasion cases can be closed without a court hearing or a criminal record, if they are handled quickly and carefully.
Letter decoder
What does my letter mean?
Pick the one in front of you. We'll tell you what it is, how long you have, and what to do next.
Which letter did you receive?
What it means
Letter asking for your account
The operator is deciding whether to prosecute. What you write now can be used as evidence, and this is often the best moment to settle the matter out of court.
Time to respond
The deadline is on the letter, often 14 to 21 days
What to do now
- 1.Do not admit anything in writing before taking advice.
- 2.Gather any tickets, Oyster or card statements, and travel history.
- 3.Let us respond for you. Many cases close here with an administrative settlement and no criminal record.
General information only. Always follow the deadline printed on your letter.
Why it matters
A small fare, a large consequence
Fare evasion is often treated as a minor matter. A conviction is not. The response you send in the first few weeks can decide which way it goes.
Missed a deadline? Call us anyway. There are often still options, but every day counts.
- 1A criminal recordwhich can appear on criminal record checks for jobs
- 2Immigration applicationswhere convictions must usually be declared
- 3Travel abroadsome countries ask about convictions on visa forms
How we help
From the first letter to the courtroom
Prosecution Response
A considered response to transport operator prosecution letters, minimising the risk of a criminal record.
Court Representation
Full advocacy at Magistrates' Court for fare evasion and railway byelaw prosecutions.
Out-of-Court Resolution
Negotiating directly with transport operators to resolve matters without criminal proceedings.
First Hearing Advice
Urgent legal advice and representation at first hearings for clients summonsed to court.
FAQs
Fare evasion, explained
Still unsure? A ten-minute call usually settles it.
I've received a letter from a transport operator. What should I do?
Do not ignore it, and do not admit anything in writing before taking advice. Operators can often be persuaded to settle out of court, which means no prosecution and no criminal record. The earlier we are involved, the better the chances.
Can a fare evasion conviction affect my immigration status?
It can. Criminal convictions must be disclosed on many visa, settlement and citizenship applications, and can count against good character. If you are subject to immigration control, take advice before you respond to anything.
What is the maximum penalty?
Travelling with intent to avoid paying a fare, under section 5(3) of the Regulation of Railways Act 1889, carries a fine of up to £1,000 (level 3), or up to three months' imprisonment for repeat offences. Railway byelaw offences are also punishable by a fine. Any conviction goes on your criminal record.
What does an out-of-court settlement involve?
Usually you pay the unpaid fare plus the operator's administrative costs, and in return the operator agrees not to prosecute. It is at the operator's discretion, so the way the request is made matters.
What is a Single Justice Procedure Notice?
A formal notice that you have been charged. A single magistrate decides the case on the papers. You must respond with a plea within 21 days of the date on the notice. If you do not, the case can be decided without you.