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It seems to me that HMCTS/train operating companies can't have their cake and eat it:

Either not buying a train ticket is like not buying a parking ticket, you get a penalty, it's dealt with administratively and there's no record of ongoing effect.

Or, it is "fare evasion", it's an act of dishonesty and a criminal offence which creates a criminal record and therefore there should be a proper hearing with an opportunity to be legally represented and somebody with a legal qualification overseeing the process.