What is a Guilty Plea to Road Traffic Offence (Newton Hearing)?

A Newton hearing is like a trial. However, it occurs after you have pleaded guilty. If your version of events is significantly different from the prosecution version, and the magistrates think it might make a significant difference to the sentence you would receive, they will order a Newton hearing to take place.

If you are found not guilty after a trial or are successful in a Newton hearing, you may be able to claim some or all of your legal costs back from central (government) funds.

Are you entitled to free advice?

What is included in the Fixed Fee?

The fixed fee includes:

• Obtaining and considering all disclosure from the prosecution 
• All necessary face to face meetings with you to take your instructions and give advice
• All necessary telephone calls and correspondence with you
• All necessary telephone calls and correspondence with the prosecution
• Advocacy in a local (Weston super Mare and Bridgwater) Magistrates’ Court at all necessary hearings up to and including the first day of trial

The fixed fee does not include:

• If you are convicted or unsuccessful, any financial penalties imposed by the court
• Advocacy at a court that is not local
• Any appeal against conviction or sentence to the Crown Court (this should be covered by legal aid)
• Any committal for sentence to the Crown Court (this should be covered by legal aid)
• Extra days if the trial is likely to last more than one day

Why pay a Fixed Fee?

By paying a fixed fee at the start of your case you have certainty about the costs involved. The alternative is to pay an hourly rate (£220 plus VAT) for the time your solicitor spends on your case.