Single Justice Procedure Notice Advice
A Single Justice Procedure notice is court paperwork, not something to put aside. Peter Bonner & Co advises motorists on the allegation, plea, penalty points and possible disqualification. Call 020 8297 1727 or contact us.
Check the deadline first
You normally have 21 days from the date shown on the notice to respond. Read the instructions and keep a copy of everything sent. If you do not respond, the case may be decided without your input. Contact us promptly rather than waiting until the last day.
Before choosing your plea
Send us the whole notice, the prosecution material supplied, your driving record and earlier correspondence. We review the charge and evidence, explain any available defence and advise on the consequences of a guilty plea. Do not assume that a notice proves the allegation or that a quick online response has no effect on your licence.
When a hearing matters
A not-guilty plea leads to a court hearing. If pleading guilty, you can request a hearing to explain matters in person. Where points may lead to a ban, obtain advice about the proper procedure and evidence. Read our totting-up and exceptional-hardship guidance.
A written mitigation statement should address the relevant facts and personal circumstances accurately. It is different from contesting the charge or making an exceptional-hardship application.
Clear advice and fees
Our published initial-advice fee is £250 including VAT, with scope confirmed before instruction. If representation is needed, we explain the appropriate agreed fee. The standard one-day Magistrates’ Court road-traffic trial package is £3,000 including VAT; separate hearings and excluded costs are explained on our road-traffic fees page.
Frequently asked questions
Is an SJP notice the same as a fixed penalty?
No. It starts a court process. Check which document you have and follow the correct response procedure.
Can I plead not guilty?
Yes. Seek advice on the evidence and complete the response as directed; the case will require a hearing.
What if I have already missed the deadline?
Contact us and the court promptly to establish the case’s status. The right next step depends on whether a decision has already been made.
What if I did not know about the case until after conviction?
There may be a procedure to challenge or reopen the decision, with important deadlines. Get advice immediately; a statutory declaration is not the same as a late plea.