I'm under impression that in this case, if Romford came to court I gave the 'right' answers, he might get away with conditional discharge or avoiding the conviction altogether. What he's done cannot be compared to giving the false name or jumping over the barriers Even if he's intent is proven, the culpability is low. I think he might self-incriminate himself completing the questionnaire. Should he be informed that the questionnaire can be used as evidence in court? All things considered, they should let him go with a warning (at most), if he re-offended, there would be iron clad case.

I don't think anybody would disagree with your points. Having said that, one magistrate court session costs hundreds of pounds of the taxpayer money and one should bring the case to the court if he cannot find justice in any other way.

To prosecute for 'fare evasion' they would have to prove intent. In your case it would be very hard to prove it unless you've admitted it.

I'm afraid I cannot do that. I've been advising you on the basis of having similar experience, but I don't have any legal education. Besides, are you old enough to act like a grown-up? Ability to negotiate your way is an essential skill. Consider it a lesson in the school of life. Perhaps you should start with why you haven't paid these twenty quid. But, don't expect you'll settle for £20, services of legal department are usually expensive.

it depends whether you've been found guilty of fare evasion or violation of railways bye-laws. If the first you do have a criminal record, but it's significance is being overstated by TOCs. If it's the latter, you have little to worry about. It's more or lss the same as the speeding ticket.

In my case, they have sent me £75 fine, but I never got the letter. Next was the Notice of Intended Prosecution. Chances are, you missed some correspondence. Engage in dialog, ask if you could reach the compromise. It shouldn't cost you more than £100 at this stage and it's only money. Of course, you can take your chances in the Court, if you're believe you're innocent. BTW. You should have paid this twenty quid.

Have you been offered to pay £20 or £75 fine?

In case of 53(b) the prosecution has to prove that you did it "Knowingly and willfully". Unless you've said something stupid it would be hard too prove. Did you behave sensibly? If you lied to him, you might give reasons to be that you have indeed evaded.

Thanks for that Wriggler, very thoughtful. They ask for things like profession and national insurance. I gather they would like to know the profession, because they would know if one should be concerned about the criminal record. Any idea what use do they have for my NI?? Cheers