Expert Taxi Licence Appeals with Hunt & Coombs Solicitors
If you’ve received a notice that your taxi licence or private hire vehicle licence is being suspended, revoked, or denied, it’s crucial to take prompt action to protect your livelihood. At Hunt & Coombs Solicitors, our dedicated team of taxi licence solicitors are here to provide expert guidance and representation, helping you build a strong appeal and safeguard your career.
With extensive experience in taxi and private hire vehicle cases, we assess each case, advise clients on their rights, and take immediate action to build a robust appeal on their behalf.
Our Taxi Licence Appeals Expertise
Our team can assist with appeals and provide legal advice on issues including:
- Refusal or threatened revocation of:
- Hackney Carriage Licence
- Private Hire Driver Licence
- Operator or Fleet Operator Licence
- Minicab Licence
- Denial of licence renewal
- Appeals on medical grounds
- Appeals of driving licence revocations
- Strategies to counter decisions based on local authority criteria
Our taxi licence appeals team has a strong record of successful cases. We ensure that each case is meticulously prepared and that our clients receive the best possible representation.
Why Choose Hunt & Coombs for Your Licence Appeal?
1. Understanding Why a Licence is Revoked
Your licence may be revoked or denied renewal for a range of reasons, such as:
- Accumulated points on your licence
- Customer complaints
- Medical reasons
- Criminal convictions for dishonesty, indecency, or violence
- Breach of local regulations or the requirement to be a ‘fit and proper person’
We advise clients on the specific grounds for revocation or refusal and develop a strategic plan to respond effectively.
2. Determining ‘Fit and Proper’ Standards
There is no precise legal definition of a ‘fit and proper person’ regarding taxi licensing, allowing the licensing authority to assess factors like:
- Points on your driving licence
- Behaviour towards passengers and other road users
- Conduct with the licensing authority
- Length of time holding a valid driving licence
- Medical fitness
- Criminal records or police cautions
- Character and reliability
We help clients address these considerations and present a clear, positive case for their suitability.
How to Appeal a Revoked Taxi Licence
If your licence has been revoked, you have 21 days from the notice date to file an appeal. The process involves several steps:
- Lodging an Appeal with the Magistrates’ Court
- To initiate the appeal, write to your local magistrates’ court within 21 days, outlining why the decision is incorrect. Our team assists in drafting this initial appeal to ensure all essential points are included. A court fee of £62 is typically required to proceed.
- Initial Hearing
- During this stage, the court will decide which witnesses to hear from, the case duration, and the key points to consider. Expert representation is crucial, as the local authority will often bring experienced legal counsel.
- Final Hearing
- At the final hearing, we present witnesses, cross-examine the other side’s witnesses, and prepare clients fully for giving evidence if needed. We guide clients through potential questions, helping them present their case with confidence.
- Decision
- The magistrates review the evidence and issue their decision. If the appeal is successful, they may order the local authority to cover your costs. Should the appeal be unsuccessful, you may be required to pay the authority’s costs. We advise clients on further appeal options to the Crown Court if needed.
Continuing to Work During an Appeal
Provided you file your appeal within 21 days of the revocation notice, you can typically continue working as a taxi driver until the hearing. Our team provides guidance on the specifics of each case, clarifying whether continued operation is possible.
How Our Taxi Licence Appeals Team Can Help
Strategic Advice on the Best Course of Action
We assess each situation, determining what’s happened and working with clients to identify the strongest grounds for appeal and the most supportive witnesses.
Case Preparation for Appeal
Our team gathers all relevant evidence, liaises with witnesses to obtain written statements, and ensures availability for the court date.
Expert Representation at Hearings
We attend court on behalf of our clients, offering professional representation to safeguard their licence.
With extensive expertise and a proven record in taxi and private hire licence appeals, we understand what’s at stake. Contact Hunt & Coombs Solicitors today to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Get in touch with Our Taxi Licence Appeals Solicitors
Our team is ready to provide expert advice and representation for taxi and private hire licence appeals. Contact us today on 01733 882800 or email [email protected] to find out further information and to discuss how we can support your case.
Kashif Khan LLB, Associate
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