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What Can I Do If I Am Contacted About Train Irregularities by a Railway Authority?

By: Shella Makwana August 20, 2025 no comments
Train Irregularities
By: Shella Makwana
August 20, 2025
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What Can I Do If I Am Contacted About Train Irregularities by a Railway Authority?

If you’ve received a letter from a train company or Transport for London (TfL) accusing you of a “train irregularity”, you may be feeling anxious and uncertain about what it means.
These letters about train irregularities can be confusing, often containing formal legal language and warnings about potential prosecution.
A train irregularity is the term used by railway authorities to describe any instance where a passenger travels without following the correct ticketing rules. This does not always mean intentional fare evasion; it can also include mistakes or misunderstandings. Common examples include:
  • Travelling without holding a valid ticket for the entire journey
  • Using another person’s Oyster card, Freedom Pass, or railcard
  • Buying a ticket for a shorter journey than the one actually travelled (“short faring”)
  • Using discounted or staff tickets without entitlement
  • Failing to tap in or out correctly with a contactless card
  • Sitting in a higher class of travel than the ticket allows
  • Using an out-of-date or invalid season ticket
Rail companies treat these matters seriously because they involve potential loss of revenue, and many cases are referred to their investigations team or even the magistrates’ court if not resolved.

Legal Support for Train Irregularities

Legal Support for Train Irregularities

At Makwanas: Train Irregularities Solicitors, we have years of experience assisting clients contacted by TfL, National Rail, and train operating companies. Whether the issue arose from an honest mistake or is being treated as deliberate fare evasion, we understand how these investigations work and what steps need to be taken.
Our team advises on how to respond to letters, prepares representations to railway authorities, and where possible negotiates out-of-court settlements to protect clients from the risk of a criminal conviction.

Why Early Action Matters

When contacted about train irregularities, ignoring the letter is one of the worst things you can do. Authorities typically set strict deadlines for replies. Failure to respond can lead directly to a summons at the magistrates’ court.
By seeking advice early, you give yourself the best chance of resolving the matter quickly and discreetly. In many cases, effective representations can prevent prosecution entirely.

Out of Court Settlements

Out of Court Settlements
Our solicitors are skilled in negotiating with train operators to reach settlements that avoid a court hearing. These agreements often involve payment of the fare owed plus the operator’s administrative costs. While each case is different, the benefits of settlement are clear:
  • No criminal record
  • No public court hearing
  • Faster and more discreet resolution
We always aim to secure outcomes that protect your future, whether that means safeguarding your job, your studies, or your reputation.

Clear, Practical Advice Every Step of the Way

Facing a train irregularity allegation can be overwhelming, especially if it is your first contact with the criminal justice system. We provide clear guidance so you always know where you stand. Our services include:
  • Assessing the allegations and evidence against you
  • Preparing your written response to the train operator
  • Advising on mitigation or settlement options
  • Representing you in court if necessary
Our goal is to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.

Train Operators We Work With

We regularly deal with cases involving all major train operators and TfL, including:
Avanti West Coast · c2c · Chiltern Railways · CrossCountry · East Midlands Railway · Elizabeth line · Great Northern · GWR · Greater Anglia · LNER · London Northwestern Railway · London Overground · Merseyrail · Northern · ScotRail · Southeastern · Southern · Thameslink · TransPennine Express · Transport for Wales · West Midlands Railway

Contact Makwanas Train Irregularities Solicitors Today

Contact Makwanas Train Irregularities Solicitors Today

If you have been contacted about alleged train irregularities, don’t panic—but don’t ignore it either. These matters can escalate quickly if not dealt with. Our experienced solicitors can step in immediately to advise you on the best response, negotiate directly with the train company, and work to protect you from prosecution.
With our help, many clients resolve their cases without ever going to court. Let us take the stress off your shoulders and guide you through this process with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does “train irregularity” mean?

It refers to any breach of railway ticketing rules, such as travelling without the correct ticket, using another person’s pass, or underpaying for a journey.

2. Is a train irregularity the same as fare evasion?

Not always. Some irregularities are deliberate fare evasion, but many cases involve mistakes or misunderstandings.

3. Can I settle without going to court?

Yes. Many cases can be resolved through out-of-court settlements. Our solicitors are highly experienced in negotiating these.

4. Will I get a criminal record?

If prosecuted and convicted, yes. However, early legal advice can often prevent the case from reaching that stage.

5. What should I do if I get a letter?

Do not ignore it. Seek legal advice immediately to prepare a timely and effective response.

6. Do you handle TfL cases as well as rail companies?

Yes, we deal with all train operators, including TfL and regional rail services.

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