Private Motoring Fees
Private Motoring Fees
At MC Solicitors, we are firm believers in transparency. From the very beginning, we are completely upfront about our fees and will keep you updated throughout your case. You will always know exactly what to expect — specialist, confidential criminal defence advice.
In line with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) Transparency Rules, we set out clear information about our services and costs so you can make an informed decision when choosing us as your legal representatives. This means you can easily understand and compare the services and prices we provide with those of other firms.
Whether you are eligible for legal aid or considering private funding, we will discuss all your options with you at the outset. Our aim is to ensure you fully understand the legal process, any potential costs involved, and the approach we will take together — leaving you confident and reassured at every stage.
Wherever possible, we will agree a fixed fee with you upfront so you stay in control of your costs. If a fixed fee is not suitable, we will provide a clear quote based on our hourly rates. Every case is different, but from the start we’ll always be open about what is included and how much it is likely to cost.
We will guide you through every funding option, ensuring you have access to the expert defence you need, whatever your circumstances.
Why Choose Private Funding?
Choosing private representation allows us to dedicate enhanced time and resources to your matter. It gives you access to a level of service and expertise that extends beyond what is typically available under Legal Aid funding.
By funding your defence privately, you are securing the strongest possible legal team to protect your interests and achieve the best result available.
Because you matter.
Get in touch with our expert private solicitors today
For further information or to request a bespoke fee quote, please feel free to get in touch by calling 01733 475504; emailing info@mcsolicitors.co.uk; or making an enquiry online.
Motoring Offences Fees
Dealt with only in the Magistrates’ Court
Dealt with at a single hearing under Part I of the Road Traffic Act 1988 and S89 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984
- Drink driving
- Drunk in charge
- Drug driving
- Failing to provide a specimen
- Driving without insurance
- Driving without a licence
- Driving whilst disqualified
- Driving without due care and attention
- Speeding
- Driving whilst using a mobile phone
- Failing to stop for the police
- Taxi touting
Advance Meeting — Fixed Fee Basis
Up to £500
Advance meeting pre-court proceedings advice on a fixed fee basis — i.e. advice on speeding, totting up, completion and return of documents to the police.
Advanced meetings are calculated based on an assessment of the time and the seniority of the solicitor meeting with you. The hourly rate for a Senior Solicitor is between £250 to £300 per hour.
The time allocated to a fixed-fee meeting is based on a maximum of two hours’ work. This may include a combination of pre-meeting preparation, reading any relevant case materials and the meeting itself.
This can be in person or virtually — to be agreed.
Preparing Written Submissions or Mitigation
£1,000 – £1,500
In some cases, we can seek to persuade the Police or CPS not to commence court proceedings. Where appropriate, we will prepare mitigation on your behalf and can submit written representations in support of your position.
Before preparing written submissions, we will meet with you to take full instructions. Depending on the evidence available at that stage, we will review the case papers and prepare written mitigation aimed at persuading the court not to impose a driving ban, where the law allows.
The cost for this work typically ranges between £1,000 – £1,500, which covers up to six hours of professional time. Representation at court is not included and would be charged separately.
The costs for this service would typically cover some or all of the following:
- ▸ Reading the evidence
- ▸ One meeting (either in person or virtually) for preparation and discussion
- ▸ Taking your instructions
- ▸ Advising you on your plea at court
- ▸ Advising any defences you might have
- ▸ Providing advice on the likely sentence and mitigation
- ▸ Drafting written submissions on your behalf
Any additional meetings, calls, or further written submissions beyond what is included in the fixed fee will be charged separately, based on the time spent and the seniority of the solicitor involved, unless a further fixed fee is agreed. This fixed fee does not include the cost of instructing experts, or third-party or other disbursements.
Representation at Court — Guilty Plea
£500 – £1,000
Fee includes:
- ▸ 2 hours attendance/preparation
- ▸ Considering evidence
- ▸ Taking your instructions
- ▸ Providing advice on likely sentence
- ▸ Attendance and representation at a single hearing at the Magistrates Court
The fee does not include:
- ▸ Instruction of any expert witnesses
- ▸ Taking statements from any witnesses
- ▸ Advice and assistance in relation to a special reasons hearing
- ▸ Advice and assistance in relation to an exceptional hardship argument
- ▸ Advice or assistance in relation to any appeal
If the hearing is outside of Peterborough, there will be an additional fee for travel. If the case is adjourned for another hearing to take place, you will be advised on an additional cost.
Trial Preparation and Representation
£1,500 – £4,000
Preparation for trial and representation at the hearing will typically range between £1,500 – £4,000, depending on the complexity of the case, the court location, and the seniority of the advocate instructed.
Trial preparation and attendance may include some or all of the following:
- ▸ Attending/preparation virtually or in person as agreed or necessary
- ▸ Considering evidence
- ▸ Taking your instructions
- ▸ Advising you on your plea at court and credit
- ▸ Advising you on the strength and weaknesses of your case
- ▸ Advising you on available defences and likely prospect of success at trial
- ▸ Taking statements from any witnesses
- ▸ Providing advice on likely sentence
The fee does not include:
- ▸ Instruction of any expert witnesses
- ▸ Advice or assistance in relation to any appeal
- ▸ Disbursements
Additional Court Fees
Plea & Case Management
£1,000 – £1,500
Representation at court for a plea to be entered and, if applicable, case management and case progression will be a fixed fee for one attendance. Cost depends on the case, location and seniority of the Advocate.
Sentencing Hearings
£1,000 – £1,500
Sentencing hearings, if not covered either at the first plea hearing or immediately following the conclusion of a trial. This would depend on the location, seniority of the Advocate and on the case complexities.
Exceptional Hardship Argument
£1,500 – £3,000
To keep your driving licence with 12 points or more on your licence would involve a minimum of one attendance with you, preparation and court hearing. Cost depends on the case complexities, location and seniority of the Advocate.
Special Reasons Hearing
£1,500
This would include preparation and submission of your argument and one court hearing. In some cases additional costs may apply. These are charged separately and will always be discussed with you in advance.
Examples of additional costs include:
- ▸ Expert Reports — costs vary depending on the nature of the report and the Expert’s fees
- ▸ Travel, mileage and standard parking fees
Timescales
We aim to handle all matters efficiently, but timescales are subject to court availability and case complexity. For guilty pleas, we typically anticipate attending court for half a day. For trials, preparation and attendance will take longer depending on the evidence and witnesses involved.
VAT Information
All fees quoted are not subject to VAT.
For further information or to discuss your case, please contact us at 01733 475504 or via email at info@mcsolicitors.co.uk. We are here to guide you through the process and ensure your interests are represented effectively.
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