15 NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: PLEA OF GUILTY IN ABSENCE NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: PLEA OF GUILTY IN ABSENCE (MC Act 1980, s 12(1)(a)) In the county of [ ] Petty Sessional Division of [ ].

If you admit the offence[s] referred to in the summons[es] served herewith and do not wish to appear before the court, it is open to you under section 12 of the Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980, to inform the Clerk of the Court in writing that you wish to plead guilty to the charge[s] without appearing. If you decide to do this, you should write to the Clerk in time for him to receive your reply at least three days before the date fixed for the hearing in order to avoid the unnecessary attendance of witnesses. In writing to the Clerk you should mention any mitigating circumstances which you wish to have put before the Court ....... A form which you can use for writing to the Clerk is enclosed. Please also complete the enclosed means inquiry form. This is to enable the court to take your income and outgoings into account should it decide to impose a fine for the offence.