Police Station Representation
Whenever a person is arrested they are taken to a police station for further enquiries to be made and for an interview to be conducted. Every person detained has a right to free and independent legal advice. This advice can be given over the phone or a representative can attend the station.
Whilst there is a duty representative scheme in place at all stations, this does not prevent you asking the police to contact a specific solicitor of your choice. When any such request is made the police have a duty to try and contact your solicitor.
We have a number of Accredited Duty Solicitors and Police Station Advisors who can attend the police station, and meet with you at short notice. These are qualified, and experienced people who can provide you with advice on the offence you have been arrested for, the nature of the evidence against you so far and advise you whether to give a comment or no comment interview. They also specialise in drafting prepared statements in cases where you wish to make a comment but do not want to endure a full interview.
One of the most important roles undertaken by our representatives is negotiating with the police. This can sometimes make the difference between a charge following an interview, an alternative disposal, such as a caution, or the police taking the decision to take no further action. Negotiations also take place regarding bail and a skilled negotiator can make the difference between you being bailed to attend a future court hearing, or being remanded overnight and taken to the Magistrates’ Court the following day.
Our police station team are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year ready to attend emergency calls. Should you or a family member or friend be arrested you can contact our FREE emergency number on 0800 321 3334 for skilled, experienced representatives who can provide expert advice.
If you are young, English is not your first language, or you are otherwise a vulnerable person, we have experienced people in these fields who can provide a service specially tailored to your needs. For example, if you are a foreign national, we can inform your home embassy, high commission or consulate of your whereabouts.
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