Staff And Fee Policy
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Staff & Fee Policy

Ishtiaq Ahmed- Consultant Solicitor Advocate

Ishtiaq Ahmed is an accomplished legal professional with over two decades of experience, offering a blend of expertise, dedication, and exceptional advocacy skills. Called to the Bar by The Honourable Society of Gray’s Inn on October 15, 1999, he was subsequently admitted to the Roll of Solicitors in 2000. His career has been defined by an unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding results in complex and technical legal matters, earning him a stellar reputation among peers and clients alike.

With a remarkable track record, Ishtiaq has personally attended over 2,000 court hearings across the United Kingdom, representing clients at Magistrates, Crown, and County Courts. Additionally, he has appeared before Local Authority Taxi Licensing Committees, showcasing his versatility and expertise across various forums. His ability to navigate the intricacies of diverse legal environments underscores his breadth of knowledge and practical experience.

Specialising in Road Traffic Offences, Ishtiaq has developed a deep understanding of the complexities within this area of law. He remains consistently informed of legal advancements and regulatory changes, ensuring his clients receive advice that is not only precise but also reflective of the latest legal developments. His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to accuracy have positioned him as a trusted advisor for individuals and organisations seeking effective legal solutions.

Ishtiaq is renowned for his exceptional communication skills, both in advocacy and written work. He approaches every case with a strategic mindset, tailoring his arguments and advice to the specific needs of his clients. His ability to simplify complex legal concepts and present them with clarity has been a hallmark of his practice.

Beyond his technical expertise, Ishtiaq embodies a strong work ethic, underpinned by values of hard work, discipline, and effective time management. He is adept at prioritising tasks to ensure the most critical aspects of his work receive focused attention, delivering outcomes that consistently exceed client expectations.

Whether dealing with intricate legal challenges or providing practical guidance, Ishtiaq Ahmed brings professionalism, diligence, and an unwavering commitment to achieving justice for his clients.

 

Muazzam Chughtai – Principal Solicitor

Muazzam Chughtai is the Principal Solicitor at TMC Solicitors, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the firm. A Grade A Solicitor of England and Wales, Muazzam has built an exceptional reputation for handling complex legal matters with precision and dedication.

Muazzam previously worked in a criminal defence law firm based in West Yorkshire. There, he gained a pre and post qualification experience in the criminal defence matters.

Whilst most of Motoring Law matters at the firm are efficiently handled by Mr Ahmed, Muazzam’s past experience in this area and meticulous attention to details equally benefit Motoring Law department at the TMC Solicitors.

 

Muhammad Waseem Assi – Solicitor

Muhammad Waseem Assi is a highly skilled and dedicated solicitor with extensive academic and professional credentials. He has studied at prestigious institutions in the UK, including The University of Glasgow, Kaplan Law School, BPP University, and The University of Law. In November 2021, he was Called to the Bar by The Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn and is an unregistered Barrister.

Waseem is passionate about supporting clients in the Motoring Law matters and he often attends hearings at the Magistrates Court in Road Traffic Offence’s matter.

Waseem’s unwavering dedication to his clients, coupled with his strong work ethic and commitment to justice, makes him a trusted advocate for individuals facing challenging legal matters.

 

Yasar Malik – Consultant Solicitor

Yasar Malik is a highly accomplished and dedicated Solicitor, with a strong academic foundation and a wealth of professional experience. He holds an LLB Law Honors degree and successfully completed his Legal Practice Course at Staffordshire University. As a qualified Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales, Yasar has built a versatile legal career, working across various areas of law, including general litigation, immigration law, motoring law, landlord/tenant disputes, and private client matters.

With over seven years of experience in legal casework and representation, Yasar has cultivated a broad skill set, allowing him to expertly navigate complex legal issues and provide effective solutions for his clients. He has worked with a diverse range of clients from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds, offering personalized legal support and advice to address their unique challenges. Yasar’s ability to connect with clients and understand their specific needs has been central to his success.

A seasoned advocate, Yasar is no stranger to courtroom representation, where his strong advocacy skills and calm demeanor ensure that his clients are well-represented in legal proceedings. His commitment to securing favorable outcomes is matched by his strategic and meticulous approach to case preparation, ensuring every aspect of a case is thoroughly addressed.

 

Our Fee Structure in Motoring Law – Fixed Fee

We offer a fixed-fee arrangement for our legal costs in the Motoring Law Cases, as an affordable and cost-effective solution to obtaining the best advice possible, with no hidden costs.

Level of Fixed Fee:

Our fixed fee will depend on a variety of factors, including but not limited to:

  • The nature and complexity of the charges involved.
  • The geographic location of the court.
  • The applicable sentencing guidelines and their starting points.
  • Your intended plea (guilty or not guilty).
  • The estimated number and duration of court hearings.
  • The level of representative required to handle your case.

VAT Notice:

All our legal fees are subject to Value Added Tax (VAT) at the current rate of 20%,

What is included in the Fixed Fee (Guilty Plea Cases):

Our fixed fees typically include the following key stages:

  • Information Gathering: Obtaining case details from the Police or Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
  • Case Analysis: Conducting a detailed legal review and analysis of your case.
  • Advice on Plea and Mitigation: Providing comprehensive guidance on your plea options, mitigation strategies, and the likely sentence, including any potential challenges to the evidence presented.
  • Representation at Magistrates Court (single hearing): Advocating on your behalf during the court hearing by a Specialist Advocate.

What is not included in the Fixed Fee (Guilty Plea Cases):

The following services are not included in the fixed-fee arrangement:

  • Expert Witness Costs: Any required expert witnesses will provide cost estimates for your approval before being instructed.
  • Witness Statements: Drafting or taking witness statements incurs additional costs.
  • Exceptional Hardship or Special Reasons Hearings: Representation for these hearings is charged separately.
  • Appeals: Advice, preparation, and representation for appeals are not included in the original fixed fee.

Disbursements

Disbursements are additional costs associated with third parties such as expert witness fees. It is not possible for us to provide an estimate of disbursements because it will depend on the level of expertise and qualification of an expert. However, to maintain transparency we will notify you of any such costs before they are incurred, ensuring that you remain in full control of your expenses.

Timelines and Scheduling

Initial Advice

  • Same-Day Appointments: We can often provide same-day consultations via Microsoft Teams or telephone for urgent initial advice.
  • Comprehensive Advice: This depends on the availability of prosecution papers, which are typically provided by the CPS five days before the hearing.

Court Hearings

  • The scheduling of hearings is controlled by the court system and varies depending on their caseloads, the court’s location, and the priority assigned to your case. We will provide updates as soon as the court issues a hearing date.

Stages in Your Motoring Law Matter

The following are the key stages involved in your case, assuming a guilty plea and a hearing date have been scheduled:

  • Initial Consultation: Meeting with your solicitor to discuss and provide instructions.
  • Disclosure Review: Obtaining, analysing, and reviewing disclosure materials and any other relevant case information.
  • Legal Analysis: Conducting a detailed review and legal analysis of the case to formulate strategies.
  • Witness Statement: Arranging to take any witness statements if necessary [this will have an additional cost of £500 plus 20% VAT).
  • Advice on Plea and Sentencing: Advising on your plea, mitigation options, and sentencing, including challenges to evidence or procedures.
  • Court Procedure Guidance: Explaining the court process and sentencing options to ensure you are fully prepared.
  • Case Preparation: Conducting all necessary preparatory work, addressing your questions, and clarifying uncertainties.
  • Court Representation: Advocating on your behalf at the Magistrates’ Court. Meetings will be held prior to the hearing, and our time at court may range from one hour to a full day.
  • Outcome Report: Providing a detailed written report on the court’s decision and offering advice on any potential appeals.

Please note we cannot provide a timescale of when your hearing will take place, as this depends on the court listing for that day.

Motoring Offences Fees Schedule

Penalty points speeding (guilty plea)

Between £1000 to £1200 (plus 20% VAT) for written representations by post

Totting up 12 penalty points (guilty plea, exceptional hardship)

Between £2500 and £3000 (plus 20% VAT)

Speeding offences where there is a risk of disqualification (guilty plea)

Between £2500 and £3000 ((plus 20% VAT)

Drink and drug driving (guilty plea)

Between £2500 and £3000 (plus 20% VAT)

Failing to provide a specimen (guilty plea)

Between £2500 and £3000 (plus 20% VAT)

Drink driving/drug driving (not guilty)

Between £3500 and £5000 (plus 20% VAT)

Failure to provide a specimen (not guilty)

Between £3500 and £5000 (plus 20% VAT)

Our fixed fees above do not include the following, unless we have agreed otherwise at the outset of accepting instructions:

  • VAT charged at 20%;
  • Our fees associated with obtaining an Expert Evidence;
  • Expert witness attendance at the Court;
  • Our fees associated with drafting written legal argument and making formal applications;
  • Our fees associated with Case Management Hearings;
  • Our fees associated with more than a single day attendance at court. If additional hearings are required due to adjournments, discounted fees will apply and will be agreed upon in advance.
  • Any fees associated with obtaining written advice from Counsel in respect of prospects of appeal.

Where any of the above are advisable, an additional fixed fee will be arranged per item in advance.

Adverse Costs and Penalties

It will be the responsibility of the client, being a defendant, to pay any financial penalty imposed by the Court (such as victim surcharge and CPS costs etc)

Defence Costs Order

Court can grant a Defendant Cost Order if you are successful in defending criminal allegation brought by the Police or Crown Prosecution Service. However, recoverable costs are capped at Legal Aid rates which are fairly lower than a private representation. We can assist in preparing and submitting your cost application. The proportion of recoverable costs will be agreed upon in advance of our work.

Payment Plans

We recognise that the legal representation in Motoring Law could be a significant expense. To ensure access to justice, we offer flexible payment plans tailored to your needs. Speak with our Client Coordinator to discuss instalment options or other payment arrangements

Hourly Rate

In some cases, the client may wish to instruct us on the basis of an hourly rate or there is insufficient case information for us to offer a fixed fee. In such cases, the rate at which you will be charged is set out below: –

Senior Solicitor and Advocates  – £400 per hour plus 20% VAT

Associate Solicitors  – £350 per hour plus 20% VAT

Assistant Solicitors – £300 per hour plus 20% VAT

Billing Guidelines (Hourly Rate):

  • The total number of hours required varies by case complexity. On average, a case may require 10 to 20 hours of work.
  • Hourly fees cover court representation, client consultations, case preparation, and other necessary legal work.
  • Travel and waiting time are billed at 50% of the hourly rate.
  • Mileage is charged at £0.45 plus VAT (20%) per mile, measuring from our Manchester office.