Driver was given the wrong advice

A 33-year-old man was told by his legal advisor that his driving ban had expired but when he was stopped by police this was not correct, it was claimed last Friday at Craigavon Magistrates Court.

By The Newsroom

Published 5th Mar 2015, 06:00 BST

Gary McGrath, Old Fort Lodge, Craigavon, was fined £250 and banned for one month for driving while disqualified on September 18 last year. He was given a conditional discharge for six months for not having insurance on the same date.

McGrath had been banned on April 4 and it was due to expire on October 4 last year.

A barrister for the defendant said he had been told by his legal advisor his disqualification had expired and he acted in good faith.

He added that there was insurance in place but this was invalid as a consequence of driving while disqualified.

District Judge, Mr Desmond Perry, said it was such an audacious thing for the defendant to say he was inclined to believe it.

Craigavon