When might you be issued with an on-the-spot fine for a public order offence?

• An on-the-spot fine for a public order offence is like receiving a ticket for a traffic offence.
• If you receive an on-the-spot fine it will state the amount of the fine. This is your penalty and you do not need to go to Court.
• The police have the power to give on-the-spot fines for a range of less serious public order offences such as:
  • public drunkenness;
  • swearing; or
  • offensive behaviour.
• For these types of offence the police do not have to prove the offence in the same way as they do with more serious criminal offences. Usually people pay the fine and that is the end of the matter.
• There are still some cases where you may disagree with the decision made by the police to issue you with an on-the-spot fine. If you believe that you have not committed the offence then speak to a lawyer and they can give you advice about challenging the fine in court.
• Our LegalPlan™ membership will allow you to ask lawyers to handle your matter for a Fixed Fee Quote.