“You could’ve been killed! Or worse… expelled!”
Emma Watson, best known for her role as the ever-rule-abiding Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series, has found herself on the wrong side of the law, this time not at the Ministry of Magic, but at High Wycombe Magistrates’ Court.
The 35-year-old actress was handed a six-month driving ban and ordered to pay over £1,000 in fines and costs, after being caught driving at 38mph in a 30mph zone in Oxford (in a car, not on a broomstick).
While the offence itself might seem relatively minor, Watson already had nine points on her licence. This latest speeding offence tipped her over the 12-point threshold, triggering what’s known in legal circles as a ‘totting up’ disqualification.
So how does a speeding offence like this escalate to a driving ban, and what should drivers be aware of to avoid similar penalties?
The Magic Number: 12 Points to Gryffindor
Under UK law, if a driver accumulates 12 or more points on their licence within a three-year period, they are liable for a minimum six-month driving disqualification under the totting up procedure. In Watson’s case, she had already accrued nine points before the July 2023 speeding incident, meaning this final offence (which typically carries three points) was enough to reach the limit.
The court does not require a wand to cast a disqualification ban. Once the 12-point threshold is reached, a ban is automatic unless the driver can demonstrate that disqualification would cause exceptional hardship. That’s a high bar to meet and not granted simply for inconvenience or disruption.
What Are the Penalties for Speeding?
Speeding offences in the UK are typically banded based on how far over the speed limit the driver was going. For a 30mph zone, driving at 38mph falls into Band A, which carries:
- 3 penalty points
- A fine of 25–75% of your weekly income
- Possible disqualification if it results in totting up
The court can also order the defendant to pay court costs and a victim surcharge, as seen in Watson’s case, where her total penalty came to £1,044.
A Driving Ban Fit for Azkaban?
Not quite. But a six-month driving ban can still cause significant disruption, especially for individuals who rely on their car for commuting, caring responsibilities or personal freedom. It also impacts insurance premiums and must be declared in certain professional contexts.
For those with points already on their licence, even a minor lapse in concentration can push them into a full disqualification, as Emma Watson’s case highlights.
Can I Defend a Totting Up Ban?
Yes – in certain circumstances. If you reach 12 points, you can still argue to keep your licence by showing that disqualification would cause exceptional hardship. This is more than an inconvenience, like being late for the Hogwarts Express, but it might include:
- Loss of employment or income
- Impact on a dependent relative
- Medical issues requiring transport
However, courts scrutinise these claims carefully and will expect detailed evidence. If Hermione had hoped to cast a spell of leniency, she would have needed a well-prepared legal argument, ideally from a skilled solicitor.
Lessons From the Hogwarts Express Lane
Emma Watson’s speeding ban reminds us that no one – not even Gryffindor’s brightest – is immune to road traffic laws. Whether you’re a student, actor, or regular motorist, the rules apply equally. With speeding cameras and police patrols more prevalent than ever, it’s easy to get caught out.
At Slater Heelis, our specialist Criminal Defence team can help if you’re facing a totting up ban, speeding charge, or other road traffic offence. We offer clear, practical advice and expert representation in court, ensuring your side of the story is heard.
Need legal advice on a driving matter?
If you’re worried about the courts casting expelliarmus on your license, call our team on 03300 297 347 or contact us online for confidential support. We’ll help you navigate the legal maze, no Marauder’s Map required.
Get In Touch
Rachel Fletcher is the Managing Partner and Head of our Crime & Regulatory team.
She is experienced in police station representation and defending clients in a wide range of cases at Magistrates and the Crown Court, including assault, sexual offences, road traffic offences, offensive weapon possession and youth crime.
If you need assistance with a case or would like to speak in confidence, contact us today on 03301 624 681 or fill out our contact form for a confidential consultation.
