To think it’s unfair I have to pay this?

[Bowlsss]

I have to pay for a solicitor! For something I didn’t even know about.

I live on a new build estate. There is another number 7 who keeps getting my post and me theirs. We swap over. Nice couple, nothing suspicious it’s just annoying it keeps happening.

I have just returned from a weeks hospital stay to find I’ve got a letter for a fine of £249!

The charge was originally £80. It is from TFL. I drove near an area of congestion charge when going to great Ormond street hospital.

I rang TFL. They say I can dispute the £249 and jus pay for £80, but, I can’t just fill out the declaration and send it. I have to get a solicitor to sign it!

So not only is it a charge of £249, but I’ll be paying out ££ solicitor fee

What can I do? 😞

I don't think you really understand what the congestion charge is and who administers it, do you?

Why does a solicitor need to sign it? Did they explain that?
If it's just a certification of a copy for example then contact your local high street solicitor and ask what they charge for a ccertification. It won't be much.

There's a form you can complete - think it's either the TE7 or TE9 form - it's the 'out of time' form. Google it, fill it out, state you didn't receive the original letter in time and email it back, the email is on the form. You'll get a response back and should get the fine reduced back to original price.

I have forgot to pay my CC before now. I believe I got a picture and statement of where I entered and when- i.e. bang to rights and no hope of a dispute. I guess you can plead extenuating circumstances, but just one week away would not alter this so far as I can see. I would pay. TFL will otherwise pass a quite simple case to a collection agency and the charges will mount.

these companies? its tfl not georges parking fines ffs

If you contact the street name and numbering department of your local council, you can sort out the numbering problem. That is free.