Caine’s daughter given speed ban despite care plea
Acting legend’s wife sent support letters to judge
MICHAEL Caine’s daughter has been banned from driving – despite claiming any disqualification would affect her ability to help care for her famous dad.
Dominique Caine, 65, admitted doing 64mph in a Range Rover in a 50mph zone in the Cotswolds last May.
The minimum three penalty points were imposed on her licence, taking her to 12, and making her liable to a six-month ban under the “totting up” rules.
Ms Caine, who lives in Cirencester, Glos, had told Cheltenham magistrates court that a ban would make it more difficult to get to London to see her 89-year-old father.
She also claimed it would affect a horseeventing business she is involved with.
As well as the ban, she was fined €225 plus costs of €100 and a surcharge of €38.
During the hearing, district judge Nicholas Wattam looked at a letter of support from Sir Michael’s wife, Shakira. He asked defence lawyer James Findon “Are we dealing with a famous name? I have a number of letters of support from Shakira Caine.
“Are we talking about Sir Michael?”
Mr Findon said: “We are.”
The judge then pointed out: “So money isn’t really an issue with this family?”
Mr Findon said: “The issue isn’t financial. The issue is the flexibility with which she is able to assist in providing care for her father.
“If she was deprived of her ability to drive it would necessitate the use of three trains and two buses. The travel time would be in excess of eight hours.”
Judge Wattam responded: “I accept a driving ban may have an impact but it does not demonstrate exceptional hardship.”
Mr Findon also said it was “not a realistic option” to take a taxi to the rural stables.
The judge suggested Ms Caine could employ a driver, which Mr Findon said his client had discussed.
In conclusion, Judge Wattam told her: “I am unable to find exceptional hardship in your case and therefore I must disqualify you from driving for the next six months.”
The issue here is the flexibility she needs to care for her father JAMES FINDON
MS CAINE’S LAWYER