Our driving offence solicitors recently represented a client (AM) before Leicester Magistrates’ Court who faced a charge of causing serious injury by careless driving — a serious road traffic offence that often attracts a prison sentence in the most severe cases.
Despite the strong evidence against her, our client was sensibly advised to plead guilty at the earliest opportunity. The incident involved a cyclist who sustained a broken hip after being struck by the vehicle. The cyclist suffered this serious injury which impacted his daily life, ability to work and limiting his ability to be self-sufficient.
Ahead of the sentencing hearing, our road traffic defence team made repeated disclosure requests to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), seeking the CCTV footage and other relevant evidence to ensure the case was presented fairly. We also held a detailed conference with our client to prepare comprehensive mitigation, go through the Sentencing Guidelines and assist in collating character references.
At the hearing, we presented persuasive submissions in mitigation, highlighting our client’s previous good character, remorse, cooperation with the police and personal circumstances. Although the sentencing guidelines placed her in a category suggesting a High-Level Community Order which would mean our client would need to conduct around 300 hours of unpaid work (community service), we argued that a financial penalty was more appropriate.
The Magistrates agreed with our representations, imposing a fine only and the minimum disqualification of 12 months permitted by law. This was an outstanding result in circumstances where at least a community order was expected.
Our client was relieved and delighted with the outcome, which brought an end to seven months of anxiety and uncertainty.
Driving Solicitors Leicester
At Sahota & Sahota Solicitors, our specialist driving offence lawyers represent clients across Leicester, the East Midlands and nationwide who face allegations such as careless driving, dangerous driving, causing serious injury and drink or drug driving.
We provide:
- Expert advice on defending driving offences
- Careful preparation of mitigation and plea hearings
- Representation in both the Magistrates’ and Crown Courts
- A professional and personal service designed to protect your licence, livelihood and reputation
If you have been charged with causing serious injury by careless driving or any other motoring offence, it is essential to seek specialist legal advice as early as possible.
You can call or WhatsApp us on 01162 555155.
You can visit us at: Sahota & Sahota Solicitors, 25 New Walk, Leicester, LE1 6TE.
