News: Drivers to challenge offences with online pleas

DRIVERS CHARGED with motoring offences such as speeding and driving without insurance will be able to plead guilty or not guilty in an “online court” from this month. The “make a plea” service will be available across England and Wales over the coming weeks after more than 1,200 people used the service in a pilot in Greater Manchester. Defendants can see their case details online and view the evidence before making their plea.

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Under the previous system they would have needed to appear in court or enter a postal plea. The move is part of a government attempt to save money and free up court time. It will initially apply to driving offences but could be extended to other minor crimes.

Edmund King, president of the AA, said: “We welcome the use of technology but we make a plea to the 500,000 drivers using mobile phones at the wheel not to make their plea from the wheel of the car – or they could end up making another plea.”