First of all, go to a solicitor and ask them for a legal aid application, there are a couple of criterias ofr getting legal aid AFAIK
1 - Prison Sentance - Nope
2 - Damage to character - As people dont car about driving offences, this is also a nope.
3 - Youre livelihood (sp?) depends on the outcome of your case. This is where it becomes time to start getting letters and stuff, if you can prove that you NEED the car, then you will get legal aid.
I got it on the basis that I was living away from home, and my Mum lives alone, so that if she needed anything, I would be the one she would call.
So, I know it sounds harsh, but any sick relatives, situations etc also that you can play on you case.
The other possible outcome is that they give you a an extenuating circumstance, ie - they will give you hefty points and fine, but will allow you to carry on driving with more than 12 points. The advantage of this, is that in August you will get rid of 6 points, however, they may give you 9 for this offence, so it could be more conveniant to accept a Ban.
Good luck mate, as for the 6 month thing, the Solicitor will also be able to advise you on this. If you dont get legal aid, then IMO, it would still be worth getting a solicitor.