The ultimate sanction for operating without a licence or breaching licence conditions is that of prosecution.
Not only is there the potential of a fine, but the impact on your business can be devastating as a result of adverse publicity. For some licensing offences, there is also the possibility of a prison sentence, but this is rare.
Once any investigation is completed, the first step in prosecution is that a summons will be served. This requires an attendance in court to enter a plea of ‘guilty’ or ‘not guilty’. Often, this hearing can be with just a few weeks notice.
It is best that you contact us before any summons is issued because this offers the best prospects of success. Our advice is to call us the moment that you are cautioned or invited for an interview during the investigation.
