Can't afford to pay the fine? Ask to go to prison.

You can ask the fines officer to withdraw the warrant of control,^[1] and ask for a warrant of commitment.^[2]

Magistrates are reluctant to issue a warrant of commitment because it gives the defaulter, in particular those who are homeless, fast track access to welfare and social housing upon their release.

When the warrant of control has been withdrawn, the enforcement power ceases to be exercisable,^[3] and the bailiff may not recover any fees and charges.^[4]

Apply to the fines officer in writing.^[5]

^{[1] Section 88(8) of the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012
[2] Section 76(2) of the Magistrates' Courts Act 1980
[3] Paragraph 6(3) of Schedule 12 of the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007
[4] Regulation 17(1) of the Taking Control of Goods (Fees) Regulations 2014
[5] See Ask for a warrant of commitment}