The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word TOLLGATE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Sunday Telegraph
T
O
L
L
G
A
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More clues leading to the result TOLLGATE
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Where people face charges, in a way" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case where people face charges, in a way = tollgate.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does TOLLGATE mean?
TOLLGATE noun- A barrier across a toll road or toll bridge that is lifted when the toll is paid