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For most traffic offences, such as driving without car insurance or speeding offences, after you have been arrested and bailed you will be summoned before a magistrate (unless your offence has resulted in serious injury or death).

After being arrested for an offence, you will be notified by the court through the post, in regards to your summons, which will include the date you are meant to appear in court as well as the nature of the offence.

As you are appearing in front of a magistrate, you do not necessarily need legal representation, especially if you have already admitted the offence to the police. However, if you are looking to contest a charge, a motoring lawyer can really make a difference, and help you prove your innocence, and your diminish your sentence.

If you are summoned to appear in front of a magistrate there are a few things to remember: most importantly you should ensure that you appear in court on the right date, otherwise this could negatively affect your case. Also, the magistrate is the one thing standing between you and your sentence, it is important that you dress appropriately etc, and convey an air of professionalism during proceedings.

If you refuse to appear before a magistrate, then the magistrate could issue a warrant for your arrest, and a police officer or court official will ensure that you end up in front of a magistrate. Essentially, a court summons cannot be avoided, and any attempt to evade proceedings is bound to work against you.