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Preliminary Hearings with the Traffic Commissioner

Clear legal guidance when preparing for a preliminary hearing

We represent operators called to preliminary hearings with the Traffic Commissioner and senior team leader (STL) interviews.

A preliminary hearing is a chance to put to rest any concerns that the Commissioner may have with your operation without the matter escalating to a full Public Inquiry.

Our lawyers will work closely with you before your hearing to gather evidence and to address any areas of concern. We will represent you at your preliminary hearing and help you to present your case.

If you have an upcoming STL interview, we will help you to prepare for it and accompany you to the meeting to present your evidence.

Contact our Transport Law team
Solicitor at an inquest

Reasons to be called to a Preliminary Hearing

The Traffic Commissioner preliminary hearings take place when there are concerns over the way you manage your transport business. Common reasons can include:

  • a poor MOT pass rate or OCRS score
  • maintenance or drivers hours problems or prohibitions
  • a failure to notify a change of maintenance provider or company director
  • lack of financial standing
  • tachograph infringements

Sometimes the Traffic Commissioner will call a preliminary hearing following a DVSA investigation. However, they can also arise from an unsatisfactory desk-based assessment by the Remote Enforcement Office (REO).

Whatever the reason, our transport lawyers can help.

Motoring and transport law team

Senior Team Leader Interviews

An STL interview is a meeting with a senior team leader from the Office of the Traffic Commissioner. It will typically be held if there are concerns that require an explanation but cannot easily be dealt with through correspondence.

We can advise you on appropriate assurances and undertakings that can be offered to allay the Commissioner’s concerns.

Our Approach

Whether you have a preliminary hearing or a senior team leader interview coming up, our team can help. We’ll work closely with your business to address concerns and resolve problems.

Whilst we don’t believe in taking an unnecessarily antagonistic approach, we’ll always examine all options to get you the best outcome possible.

We provide free initial consultations and offer fixed fees. Speak to one of our transport lawyers today on 03456 465 465.

We can help you prepare for a preliminary hearing in such a way as to avoid a full Transport Commissioner Public Inquiry.
Georgina Power
Georgina Power

Contact our Transport Law team

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Transport Law reviews

September 22, 2026
I had Chelsey and Anton representation on case and the outcome was even better than anticipated. Super helpful, knowledgeable and professional. Could not recommend this firm and them specifically enough!
- Farida
September 21, 2026
I was looking for good representation at my upcoming PI, I approached 3 companies but found Rothera Bray and in particular Georgina Power who deals with Transport to be the best. Not only on price which was very sensible given my type of hearing and relative simplicity but also the personal touch with great communication at every turn, email updates all the time and a Zoom meeting. I recommend this company for anyone's legal requirements, exceptional isn't enough.
- Andrew Harris
July 1, 2026
Anton, Rebeca & Chelsey have been excellent from start to finish. Professional and reliable at all stages, handling everything with care and attention to detail. Nothing has been any trouble and are fast to respond to any queries. Extremely knowledgeable in their field and without a doubt would recommend to anyone.
- Jessica Cousins
June 15, 2026
This firm is awesome, they delt with everything quickly, and professionally. Georgina Power was amazing, will definitely be using them again.
- Andy Flint
April 30, 2026
Rothera Bray put a strong hardship case for me successfully. I would like to give a personal thanks to Anton who was kind, approachable and I was impressed with his professionalism. If you want a lawyer who will work your behalf to get the best result then look no further. I can not thank them enough.
- Chris H
January 23, 2026
I recently had a legal issue I needed assistance with and was told of Rothera Bray by an acquaintance. From my very first conversation with a very pleasant lady called Rebeca, my mind was put at ease. Further along the line I was then in conversations with Chelsey, who too was great. Very professional and informative. I was kept up to date on a daily basis and the two people I mentioned truly made a terrible time, very manageable. I cannot recommend Rothera Bray solicitors enough.
- Ben Pitcher
January 19, 2026
We recently had a hearing with the TC. Originally we were not going to appoint a representative but last minute decided to do so. We were recommended Georgina Power of Rothera Bay Solicitors who I initially contacted to make enquiries. As soon as I spoke to her I knew straight away she would advise and help us to the best of her ability and that she certainly did. In a very short timeframe Georgina took ownership of all documentation which took a lot of pressure off us, never in the past had we dealt with such proceedings. Then she communicated via email and then arranged a teams meeting. On the day of the hearing we met and Georgina made us feel relaxed and confident going into the hearing. Georgina helped us get the result we needed and we were able to continue with our license. I cannot speak highly enough of Georgina and the firm. All emails were answered promptly and any question were always addressed. If there was a score to be had above excellent I would 100% give it. Thankyou so much Georgina.
- Anonymous
January 15, 2026
I was put in contact with Georgina Power at Rothera Bray Solicitors following our request to attend an STL (Senior Team Leader meeting with the Traffic Commissioner). From the first conversation I was made to feel comfortable with both the professionalism along with the knowledge/experience to deal with our case. Throughout the process we were guided/advised in all area's along with the required expectations, a witness statement was prepared along with the required supporting evidence in advance of our case. At the STL meeting we were supported by Georgina verbally and on the back of this a positive outcome was achieved.
- G Barker
January 15, 2026
I have been working with VUS Ltd for almost a year now following a DVSA Stop and subsequent MIVR they were recently summoned to an STL Meeting at The Office of Traffic Commissioner, I advised the MD of VUS that it would be advisable to get a specialist Transport Solicitor on board to assist with this matter. I always give the names of 2 different Solicitors to my client one being Georgina Power who I had worked with on a PI for Woodspace Ltd (t/a C Dart). Thank you again to Georgina who did a very professional job and I will contact her again when I need to.
- Peter Adams - Transport Manger
October 13, 2025
Fantastic service from start to finish. Anton led my motoring case with great expertise, and Rebeca kept me informed and reassured throughout. I’m very grateful for their work and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.
- Dan C
October 13, 2025
It was a pleasure working with Anton. Thank you for all your help. I can’t speak highly enough of his firm. They specialise in Traffic Commissioner’s Public Inquiries and are simply the best!
- E Colson, Transport Manager, Colson Transport Ltd.
October 13, 2025
I just want to say how grateful we all are for all your hard work and conscientiousness. It was a daunting day, and Georgina and Anton made the crisis bearable for us all. The presentation and content was well orchestrated. We can’t thank you enough. Not only are you both dedicated to your work, but your knowledge and expertise guided us through to a good result. We will be eternally grateful.
- TNR Haulage
October 13, 2025
Anton’s persistence helped secure our operator’s licence. His representation at public inquiry and help throughout was exceptional. The service was worth every penny!
- Susan Briggs, Rapid Travel Ltd
October 13, 2025
I’d like to say that Anton represented us at a Traffic Commissioner’s Public Inquiry and did a fantastic job in helping us prepare. He also secured the best possible outcome with only a formal warning for the company and our driver. I can certainly recommend his services.
- Dan Fordham, Danfords Construction Equipment Ltd
October 13, 2025
I highly recommend efficient, proactive and highly competent Mr Balkitis and his excellent team of skilled legal experts that support our Company in the UK
- Frederic Giustetti, Vice President of Operations, Transfreight Automotive Logistics Europe
October 13, 2025
On product knowledge, they are on top of their game i.e Anton has extensive knowledge of road transport law & a constant willingness to help.
- Chris Ruane

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