Millions of UK drivers, particularly those who drive for a living, could face a heightened risk of prosecution under significant proposed changes to the justice system put forward by the Labour government.
What is the Proposed Law Change?
Justice Secretary David Lammy has outlined plans to follow a "bold blueprint" that would remove the right to a jury trial for certain criminal cases, including some motoring offences. The move is aimed at tackling a court backlog projected to reach 100,000 cases by 2028. Lammy warned MPs that without fundamental change, justice would be denied to more victims and public trust would collapse.
However, the proposal has sparked immediate concern among legal experts and backbench Labour MPs. The change would mean that for specific driving charges, a single judge, rather than a panel of twelve jurors, would determine guilt or innocence.
Why Are Motoring Experts So Concerned?
Charlotte Le Maire, a specialist transport lawyer and founder of LMP Legal, has been vocal in her criticism. She stated that taking away the right to choose a jury for offences that can still lead to imprisonment represents a "significant change".
"Many driving cases turn on split-second decisions, stress, memory and perception," Le Maire explained. "These are exactly the types of cases where the shared judgment of 12 independent people matters. Drivers need to know that the facts of their case will be tested properly, openly and fairly."
She emphasised the severe consequences for professional drivers, for whom a prosecution can mean far more than penalty points or a fine. "It can take away their income and stability," she warned, labelling the removal of the jury option a "major concern".
Political Backlash and Warnings
The policy has faced fierce opposition from within the Labour Party itself. Clive Efford, MP for Eltham and Chislehurst, warned it could penalise working-class defendants and create an "us-and-them" divide in the criminal justice system.
Richard Burgon, MP for Leeds East, said the policy sent "a chill through my heart" and drew comparisons with tactics used by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Meanwhile, Karl Turner, Labour MP for Kingston upon Hull East, took to social media platform X to declare the proposals a "massive mistake" that would never get through Parliament.
As the debate intensifies, the government insists the reform is necessary for a functioning justice system. For the nation's drivers, especially those whose livelihoods depend on being behind the wheel, the stakes of this legal overhaul could not be higher.
