Summary
Lawtons’ Nick Titchener was instructed to defend former Premier League footballer Andy Carroll for an exceptional hardship application against a driving ban. Thanks to the strength of Lawtons’ preparation and advocacy, the application was accepted in court and Carroll avoided a driving ban.
Details of the Offence
While driving to meet a friend, former premier league footballer Andy Carroll was stopped by a protest. He began filming the protest on his phone, where he was then spotted by Police Officers.
Carroll was later charged with using a mobile phone while driving, which he accepted and had pleaded guilty to by post. When passing sentence at Chelmsford Magistrates Court, the Magistrates added a further six penalty points to Carroll’s licence for this offence.
Due to previous driving convictions, this brought his total penalty points to sixteen. In UK law, a driving ban will be imposed if twelve or more points are accumulated within a three-year period.
Our Defence
Lawtons were instructed on a privately funded basis to try and avoid the Court imposing on Carroll a driving ban for being a “totter”. Managing Partner Nick Titchener prepared an exceptional hardship application, which argued that a driving ban would cause suffering beyond usual inconvenience. His inability to drive would cause issues for his family.
Briefed by Nick, Consultant Solicitor, Patrick O’Reilly, appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates Court on behalf of Lawtons, where he expertly argued that a driving ban would cause significant problems for him and his family.
Patrick stated that Carroll’s vehicle was parked at the time of the incident due to the protest and that he had been filming to show his friend why he was delayed.
Thanks to the strength of Nick’s exceptional hardship application and Patrick’s robust advocacy at court, the Magistrates agreed not to impose a driving ban. Carroll was very grateful to Lawtons for this outcome and to be able to continue caring for his family as needed.
Looking for a driving ban appeal solicitor?
At Lawtons, we have the cumulative experience to provide the bespoke service your case demands, and this is supported by our knowledgeable and experienced team. If you have received a driving disqualification or if you are facing a similar issue, it is vital to get in touch with a specialist defence solicitor as soon as possible. If you need legal advice, please do not hesitate – contact a member of our specialist team today.
