A defence lawyer has challenged the amount of reparation her client has been asked to pay in a careless driving matter.

Lawyer Michelle Tangimama disputed the submissions when Tangimetua Nooroa appeared before Justice of the Peace John Whitta in the Criminal Court on Wednesday.

The court heard a quote for about $4000 had been received for repairs to a vehicle, which Tangimama described as excessive.

The quote was now void, as it was more than three months old and there were questions as to the location of the damaged vehicle, she said.

Tangimama said the victim had organised for a friend to repair the damages to the vehicle.

The victim had not provided a receipt for repairs which then created doubt as to the quote for repairs.

A report from probation showed the defendant had financial issues and could not afford the reparation amount.

While employed, his employment was not consistent.

Tangimama then sought a discharge without conviction and a fine of no more than $100.

JP Whitta said it was a complicated matter and it would be a mistake to continue with it.

“If it (the vehicle) is already fixed, I’m not going to go on someone else’s quote.”  

“The quotation amount is excessive, that is my main concern,” Tangimama said.

JP Whitta said he would deliver a reserved decision on July 11.