Court Fine

chispa

I had 12 months to pay £1,300 court fine for a conviction of a crime I did not commit and there are 5 left. I cannot pay unless I go without eating. My total income is £40 per week, I live alone in a rural area and the closest shop is 7 miles away. I do not own anything except my bed and bedside table. Other things I have are a washing machine, fridge, table and various cutlery and crockery which I have borrowed. Is there anything I can do other than go to prison? The court refuse to suspend payment or reduce it and offer me 2 weeks in prison for non payment. My income will increase to £60 once I've paid my budgeting loan for my bed but there's lots still to pay.
Please can someone advise. If I have to go to prison could this be arranged sooner rather than later?

determined_new_ms

Chispa you need to get legal advice around this. My understanding is you do need to pay it but the Courts can't/won't make you pay what you can't afford. You really need to return to Court and give a statement of affairs showing you cannot pay the agreed amount and what you could realistically afford. You could them ask that it is paid directly from your benefits, they may be more willing to accept a smaller amount if they are apid directly. Don't leave it, be proactive. Good luck x