Train fare Prosecution

[Dammyfolum]

Yesterday I was issued a report for prosecution for train fare evasion. I didn't have a ticket because the outlet at my station was closed and I don't know how to use the machine especially getting a return ticket for the following day. My details were taken and was told I would be receiving a letter. I am an international student and am scared of the court outcome. Please what can I possibly do

 

[Cuthbert]

Yesterday I was issued a report for prosecution for train fare evasion. I didn't have a ticket because the outlet at my station was closed and I don't know how to use the machine especially getting a return ticket for the following day. My details were taken and was told I would be receiving a letter. I am an international student and am scared of the court outcome. Please what can I possibly do

Just need more information.

We need to know all relevant facts in order to assist you, including, for example:
The stations* where you actually started & finished your journey
The stations* where you changed trains (if applicable);
If you presented a ticket(s), the information* stated under "Ticket type", "From", "To", "Route", and any other relevant details;
Details of any Railcard(s) held;
When and where ticket(s) were purchased, including whether this was prior to the journey commencing;
What happened in any encounter with railway staff;
Upload copies of any paperwork (with personal details redacted) with your post.

 

[Dammyfolum]

My journey started from Branksome and finished at Winchfield station
I changed at Basingstoke. I didn't present a ticket because I was unable to buy a ticket at Branksome station. They were closed already. I had my 16-25 railcard which was presented to the train staff.

 

[30907]

Welcome to the forum (and to the UK).

Unfortunately, unless you have a disability that means it is impossible for you to use the ticket machine, you were able to buy a ticket at Branksome.

When SWR write to you, please come back and ask for advice. The aim will be to ask them to settle the fare you own without involving the criminal courts (they will threaten that, but if you engage with them they will almost certainly offer a settlement; expect to pay the full fare plus an admin fee which will probably be over £100.

Meanwhile, please visit your local station and find out how the machine works - or if you prefer, try using a train company website (or our own) to do the same.

PS I assume this is the first time you have travelled without first buying a ticket - SWR may well attempt to check this and that may affect the amount they ask for.

 

[Dammyfolum]

Will I probably need a solicitor for this?

 

[6Gman]

Will I probably need a solicitor for this?

The general advice is that a solicitor is rarely needed, but best wait until you receive a further communication from the railway company.

 

[tatitiliti]

Will I probably need a solicitor for this?

Will I probably need a solicitor for this?

Definitely no need for a solicitor, you’ll just be wasting your money for something that should be solved with a simple letter. Fortunately, SWR is one of the companies who is relatively amenable to settling out of court if you haven’t come to their attention before. @30907 ‘s advice is correct. I’m sure others will be along to advise soon, but to settle out of court, you’ll want to wait for their letter to arrive then write a response that shows what you have learnt from your error of judgement and asks respectfully for an out-of-court settlement. There are plenty of templates around on this section of the forum to help with this.

 

[Hadders]

Welcome to the forum.

When SWR's letter arrives upload a redacted copy of it in this thread along with your draft reply and forum members will proof read it for you. I echo what others have said, as long as you co-operate the train company will offer you an out of court settlement.

 

[Dammyfolum]

I received the letter from the SWR and am asked to make the payment of £159.40 or request a court hearing.
I will be making the payment. Thanks to everyone who responded, your response gave me peace of mind because I was so scared. I am an international student, and stuff like this is bad for me.

 

[Blinkbonny]

Good to hear. Expensive, but quickly dealt with - and better than some of the alternatives!