Appeal a magistrates’ court decision
How to apply
You can apply to challenge a magistrates’ court decision if:
- you want to ask the court to reduce the total amount of a fine
- someone falsely gave your details to the police or courts
- you did not know about the case against you
- you did not attend the hearing, or the court did not have all the evidence
You can apply:
- by phone
- online
You’ll be asked questions and told which type of application you can make. It’s free to apply.
There’s a different process for appealing a Crown Court decision, appealing a civil or family court decision or appealing to the Employment Appeal Tribunal.
Before you start
You’ll need:
- your unique case reference number - find this on your notice letter, or any letter from the court or prosecutor
- your driving licence number, if your case relates to a driving offence
- evidence of your income (such as payslips or a proof of benefit letter) if you’re applying to reduce your total fine amount
- any additional documents you want to upload to support your case
If you do not have your unique case reference number call the Courts and Tribunals Service Centre.
Apply by phone
Contact the Courts and Tribunals Service Centre.
Courts and Tribunals Service Centre
sjs@justice.gov.uk
Telephone: 0300 303 0656
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
Find out about call charges
Apply online
It takes about 30 minutes to apply. You can save your progress and come back later.
You can talk to your legal representative (if you have one) or get help from a legal adviser before challenging a magistrates’ court decision.
If you need help applying
If you need help, who you contact depends on what you need.
If you’re having technical issues or need guidance about how to appeal:
Courts and Tribunals Service Centre
sjs@justice.gov.uk
Telephone: 0300 303 0656
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
Find out about call charges
If you do not have access to the internet or do not feel confident using it:
We Are Group
support@wearegroup.com
Telephone: 03300 160051
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
Closed on bank holidays
Text FORM to 60777 and someone will call you back
Find out about call charges