Traffic offenses are unavoidable, and once in a while, you might find yourself in trouble. A statutory declaration happens when you are convicted of a motoring offense, but you are not aware of the proceedings due to one thing or another. For instance, there are cases where you are caught with an over speeding charge without your knowledge and the case proceeds without your knowledge. This type of case can be very complicated, and you need a good motoring lawyer to help you with the court proceedings.
Tips on handling a statutory declaration
Get the services of a lawyer
The first thing that you should do once you get a statutory declaration is to get the services of a motoring lawyer. Statutory declarations are a bit complicated compared to other cases, and you might not have the knowledge on handling the case. A lawyer will offer you the necessary procedure on responding to the case because a response is usually needed immediately. Most of the motoring lawyers will even give you advice on whether to plead guilty or not because they understand the dynamics of these cases.
Respond immediately
The best way to handle a statutory declaration is by making sure that you respond to it as soon as possible. Immediately you notice, that you are facing a statutory declaration, make sure that you make the necessary actions as soon as possible. According to law, if you make the declaration at least 21 days after you become aware of the charge, then it is deemed void, and this is an advantage to you. The more you delay, the tougher the charge against you becomes complicated.
Plead guilty or not guilty
Once you become aware of your charge, then it is time to consider whether to plead guilty or not guilty. If you plead not guilty with 21 days, the magistrate might decide to make the case void, or you might be prosecuted on a later date. If you plead guilty, then the case will be taken to another date, and you will be given time to prepare for the case. The only thing that you should do at this time is to make sure that you make a response either way.
