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Can't afford to pay the fine? Do unpaid work instead.


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

When the warrant of control has been withdrawn, the enforcement power ceases to be exercisable,[3] and the bailiff may not recover any fees and charges.[4]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] Paragraph 2 of Schedule 6 of the Courts Act 2003
[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 Commute an unpaid court fine to unpaid work after bailiffs
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