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HUNTINGFORD, Emma

Case Reference: 40AD1291626

Case Details

Reference

40AD1291626

Court

Luton and South Bedfordshire Magistrates' Court - Courtroom 04

Magistrate

District Judge (MC) Fudge

Hearing Date

21 May 2026

Time

10am

Hearing Type

First hearing

Court Type

Magistrates

Prosecutor

CPS-TCBH

Case Details

Offence Details: | Drive whilst unfit through drink Fail to co-operate with a preliminary test - motor vehicle offence Fail to provide specimen for analysis - vehicle driver Fail to give information relating to the identification of the driver / rider of a vehicle when required

Next Steps at this First Hearing / First Appearance

At the first hearing (usually in the Magistrates' Court), the charges are formally read. The defendant is asked to enter a plea. If pleading guilty, sentencing can sometimes happen immediately or be adjourned. If pleading not guilty, the court will make directions to manage the case or transfer it to the Crown Court for trial.

Court Jurisdiction: Magistrates' Court - Magistrates' Courts handle virtually all summary offences (minor offences) and start the proceedings for serious offences. They are presided over by three volunteer Magistrates (advised by a legal advisor) or a single qualified District Judge. They do not have a jury.

UK Offence & Sentencing Guidelines

Driving Under the Influence (DUI / Excess Alcohol)

It is an offence to drive, attempt to drive, or be in charge of a motor vehicle on a public road or place after consuming so much alcohol or drugs that the proportion in your breath, blood, or urine exceeds the prescribed limit.

Sentencing: Dealt with in the Magistrates' Court. Penalties include a mandatory minimum 12-month driving disqualification (36 months for a second offence within 10 years), an unlimited fine, community service, or up to 6 months imprisonment.
Disclaimer: The legal definitions and sentencing guidelines above are for general educational purposes under English Law and do not constitute formal legal representation or advice. If you are facing criminal prosecution, consult a qualified criminal defense solicitor immediately.

Case FAQs & Procedure Guide

Yes, it is highly recommended. Legal representation ensures your rights are protected, especially when entering a plea or applying for bail. A duty solicitor is usually available at court for eligible defendants.

Pleading guilty at the earliest opportunity typically entitles you to a sentence reduction (up to one-third off the penalty). The court may sentence you immediately or adjourn to obtain a pre-sentence report.

The case will be adjourned, and a trial date will be set. The court will determine issues such as bail, witness requirements, and evidence submission deadlines.

For a single summary/either-way offence, magistrates can sentence a defendant to a maximum of 6 months in prison (or up to 12 months for multiple either-way offences), alongside unlimited fines and community orders.

Magistrates are trained volunteers from the local community who sit in panels of three. A District Judge is a qualified legal professional who sits alone. Both have the same sentencing powers.

It is an offence to drive, attempt to drive, or be in charge of a motor vehicle on a public road or place after consuming so much alcohol or drugs that the proportion in your breath, blood, or urine exceeds the prescribed limit.

Dealt with in the Magistrates' Court. Penalties include a mandatory minimum 12-month driving disqualification (36 months for a second offence within 10 years), an unlimited fine, community service, or up to 6 months imprisonment.

Interested in the outcome of this case? You can request more information by emailing the court directly using the Email Court button at the top of the page.

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