Fare Evasion Solicitors in London

Received a TFL Fare Evasion Letter? We Can Help You Avoid a Criminal Record

If you have been accused of fare evasion, you may be feeling anxious about the potential consequences. A conviction can lead to significant fines, a criminal record, and long-term effects on your employment and travel opportunities. While fare evasion may seem like a minor offence, failing to deal with it properly can result in serious repercussions.

At Makwanas, we specialise in defending individuals accused of fare evasion. Our expert fare evasion solicitors in London provide strategic legal representation to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Whether you were wrongly accused or made an honest mistake, we are here to protect your rights and minimise any negative impact on your future.

With extensive experience handling Transport for London (TfL) and National Rail prosecutions, we work efficiently to resolve cases—either by negotiating an out-of-court settlement or by providing a strong defence in court when necessary.

📞 Book Your Free Discovery Call Today – Speak to a fare evasion solicitor to understand your legal position and options.

Why Choose Our Fare Evasion Solicitors?

At Makwanas, we provide expert legal defence for fare evasion cases, ensuring that our clients receive professional representation at every stage. Here’s why you should trust us with your case:

✔ Specialist Expertise – Our team has in-depth knowledge of fare evasion laws, TfL regulations, and National Rail procedures.

✔ Proven Track Record – We have successfully defended numerous clients, preventing prosecutions and securing favourable settlements.

✔ Personalised Legal Strategies – Every case is unique, and we tailor our approach to provide the best possible defence.

✔ Fixed-Fee Pricing – Transparent and affordable legal representation with no hidden costs.

✔ Swift Legal Assistance – We act quickly to protect your rights and resolve your case before it escalates.

If you are searching for “fare evasion solicitors near me” or the “best fare evasion solicitors in London”, our team is here to help.

Fare Evasion First Offence – Can You Avoid a Criminal Record?

If this is your first fare evasion offence, you may be able to avoid prosecution by settling the case directly with the transport authority. Our fare evasion solicitors will negotiate on your behalf to help you avoid a criminal record and minimise penalties.

Many factors influence the outcome of a first-time offence, including:

• Intent – Whether the fare evasion was deliberate or a mistake.
• Evidence – The strength of the transport authority’s case.
• Personal Circumstances – Any mitigating factors that may support your defence.

At Makwanas, we work diligently to present your case in the best possible light, ensuring that one mistake does not impact your future.

How Much Do Fare Evasion Solicitors Cost?

Legal fees vary depending on the complexity of your case. At Makwanas, we offer a fixed-fee pricing structure, ensuring that you receive high-quality legal support without unexpected costs.

Many clients ask, “how much do fare evasion solicitors cost?” Our commitment to affordable and transparent pricing means you can access expert legal help at a fair rate.

Our Fare Evasion Defence Services

• ✅ Legal Case Review & Strategy – Assessing the evidence and planning your defence.
• ✅ Negotiation with Transport Operators – Seeking to settle your case before prosecution.
• ✅ Court Representation – Defending clients in Magistrates’ Court and higher courts if necessary.
• ✅ Appeals & Criminal Record Avoidance – Challenging unfair fare evasion convictions.
• ✅ Legal Advice on Transport Regulations – Helping you avoid future fare evasion issues.

Transport Companies We Defend Against

• Transport for London (TfL) – Covering buses, the London Underground, Overground, and trams.
• National Rail Operators – Including Thameslink, Southern, South Western Railway, Greater Anglia, and more.
• Eurostar – Defending individuals accused of fare evasion on international routes.
• Other Private and Public Rail Companies – Any transport provider issuing penalty fares or legal proceedings.

Case Study: Avoiding Prosecution for Fare Evasion

Case Study 1

Our client, a professional in a regulated industry, faced prosecution for using a family member’s Student Oyster Card due to an inadvertent error while travelling to work. Although the client immediately cooperated with Transport for London (TfL) inspectors and admitted the mistake, they risked prosecution under Byelaw 17(1) of the TfL Railway Byelaws.

A conviction would have had severe consequences, including:

• Loss of Employment: The client’s role required a clean DBS check, and a dishonesty conviction would have led to dismissal.
• Family Impact: As the sole provider for a family with significant health needs, a conviction would have jeopardised their stability.
• Reputation Damage: A criminal record would harm the client’s professional and personal standing.

We presented a compelling case to TfL, highlighting mitigating circumstances, the genuine nature of the oversight, the client’s exemplary character, and their immediate cooperation. We argued that prosecution was not in the public interest, particularly given the disproportionate impact on the client’s career and family.

Thanks to our intervention, TfL agreed to resolve the matter with a formal warning, allowing the client to avoid a criminal record and maintain their livelihood.

Case Study 2

The Importance of Legal Representation in Fraud Act Cases

Our firm successfully represented a Client who faced prosecution under Section 6 of the Fraud Act 2006 and Section 17(2) of the Greater London Council (General Powers) Act 1972. The client was accused of using a Disabled Blue Badge reported as stolen to park near his workplace. He admitted to borrowing the badge from a friend without knowing it was stolen, explaining that workplace punctuality pressures led to a lapse in judgment.

A conviction for dishonesty would have had severe consequences, including loss of employment, future career restrictions due to enhanced DBS checks, and significant financial strain on his family, for whom he is the primary provider. Recognising the potential repercussions, we provided comprehensive legal representation.

We crafted a detailed submission to the Council, emphasising the client’s lack of intent to deceive, his good character, and the mitigating personal pressures he faced. We presented compelling evidence, including character references, a formal apology, and the client’s immediate cooperation with enforcement officers, to demonstrate his genuine remorse and willingness to take accountability.

Thanks to our intervention, the Council agreed to resolve the matter with a simple caution rather than proceeding to prosecution. This outcome allowed the client to address the mistake without disproportionate harm to his career, reputation, and family responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I settle a fare evasion case without going to court?

Yes, in many cases, our solicitors can negotiate with transport authorities to reach an out-of-court settlement.

2. Will I get a criminal record for fare evasion?

If convicted, fare evasion can lead to a criminal record. Our legal team works diligently to prevent this outcome.

3. What happens if I ignore a penalty fare notice?

Ignoring a penalty fare notice can lead to prosecution and a criminal record. Seeking legal advice as soon as possible is highly recommended.

4. How long does a fare evasion case take?

Timelines vary, but many cases can be resolved within a few weeks if settled early. Court cases may take longer.

5. Does fare evasion affect job applications?

Yes, a fare evasion conviction can impact employment opportunities, especially in regulated professions.

6. Can I get a free consultation for my case?

We offer a free discovery call where you can discuss your case with a solicitor and explore your legal options.