Always seek legal advice if you are a suspect in a criminal investigation. You are always entitled to legal aid in the police station so the advice will be free. If the allegation is work related, we can help you so call us.
If you are asked to attend the police station or meet with an officer, it is important to clarify whether you are being asked to give a statement as a witness or to attend an interview under caution as a potential suspect. If the alleged offence is work related and you have been invited to an interview under caution or are arrested, please call us without delay. You should be represented by one of our agent solicitors or by the duty solicitor, unless we advise otherwise.
Please do not discuss the case with police officers outside the formal interview setting (usually at the Police station). Assume that all custody areas are covered by CCTV with audio save for the room that you will use to discuss matters with your solicitor. The interview itself will be recorded and can be used as evidence in any future prosecution as can any significant statement about the offence which you make to the police at any point. Before the interview begins, you will hear ‘The Caution’, this is a formal warning which states that:
- you do not have to answer police questions
- any information given can be used as evidence against you
- if you choose not to answer questions it may harm your defence as the court will consider your potential reasons for remaining silent.
As a suspect you may be asked to attend an interview voluntarily (known as a “Caution plus three” interview). If this happens you should still call us to discuss your circumstances. You should bear in mind that if you decline to attend a voluntary interview, you may be arrested if the police believe it is necessary.