Police Station

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We can help you at the Police Station

If you are arrested you will be taken to the Police Station, where the Police will investigate allegations against you.

Their role is to investigate and find evidence against you, which can include interviewing you.

If you're in this predicament, it can be a nerving experience. You should get in touch with us immediately for help.

We also have information here that can help you.

Call Us Now: 020 7931 9098

Don't make this fatal mistake

One thing that we tell our clients is to never talk to the Police without Legal Representation.

Often, this will put you at risk of making mistakes that can damage your case, even if you are innocent.

Anything you say can be used against you. You could say something that is misinterpreted or taken out of context. We can help you answer questions safely without incriminating yourself.

Representation means that:

Your rights are protected

You avoid self-incrimination

You have an effective legal defence strategy

Contact us today to get your legal journey off to the right start. You can also transfer your case to us if you have another solicitor representing you.

Call Us Now: 020 7931 9098 Other Contact Methods

Please note that this is not legal advice. Everyone's circumstances are different, and you should contact us for assistance with your particular scenario.

What happens when you are arrested?

When you are arrested, you will be informed for the reason and be given the 'caution', which is a common statement that goes: You do not have to say anything. But, it may harm your defence if you do not mention, when questioned, something which you later rely on in court. Anything you do say may be given in evidence.

You'll be placed in handcuffs, then be taken to the police station, and your details will be taken.

A custody officer will then decide if there is sufficient reason to detain you. They are responsible for the legality of your detainment.

You should not divulge any information about your allegation without the advice of your legal representative.

Your rights at the Police Station

It can be daunting to be at the Police Station, branded as a criminal. However, your rights are protected under UK law and you should not worry, especially if you have expert legal representation by your side.

Whilst there are many laws, the most important is the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE).

Your key right is the right to Legal Representation

You have the right to free and independent legal advice and you can request a solicitor at any time.

If you ask for a solicitor, it's important to note that the police cannot question you until your solicitor arrives, unless there are exceptional circumstances.

Contrary to what you may have been told, you do not have to say anything when questioned. However, it's important to note that if you remain silent during questioning then rely on it later, it could harm your defence. The famous quote goes: You do not have to say anything. But, it may harm your defence if you do not mention, when questioned, something which you later rely on in court. Anything you do say may be given in evidence.

You have the right to free, independent legal advice at the Police Station.

The police needs to inform you of their reason for arresting you, which includes the crime you are suspected of committing and the grounds of your arrest.

You must be treated with respect and without abuse. The law requires that you are held in safe, clean conditions with access to essentials. You also have the right to use the toilet and access medical care if needed.

You have the right to have one person informed of your arrest. This could be a family member or your friend.

If English is not your first language or you have hearing imparirments, you can request an interpreter.

Unwell or injured? You have the right to medical attention.

The Police cannot hold you indefinitely without a charge. Generally speaking, they can only hold you up to 24 hours without charging you with a crime (although this can be extended depending on the circumstances).

If you are under 18 or are considered vulnerable, the police have an obligation to ensure that an appropriate adult is present. This could be a parent, guardian or social worker.

Your non-intimate samples such as fingerprints, photographs and DNA swabs can be taken without your consent. However, intimate samples such as blood and urine require your consent or a Court Order. There are exceptions to this.

You can request to see the Codes of Practice, which set out your rights and how you should be treated whilst at the Police Station.

If you believe that you have been unlawfully detained or that your rights have been violated, you can challenge your arrest. It's usually best to explore this with your solicitor.

What happens after the interview?

After the interview, the police may take no further action (NFA), bail you to return (BTR) or charge you.

No further action (NFA) is the most desireable outcome. It means that the police have closed your matter and will no longer be investigating your case. However, it is important to note that should more evidence come to light they may reopen their investigation.

Bail to Return means that you will be required to re-attend the Police Station at a later date. This may be to give the Police more time to investigate the allegations. You may receive a set of Bail Conditions, which sets out what you must and must not do. You should always follow your bail conditions.

Charging you with an offence means that you will be prosecuted. You will be given a court and date to attend to answer your charges. In extreme cases, you may be remanded in custody (RIC), which means you are held in prison until you can attend the Court.

We will always work with you to protect your best interests, looking to get your charges dropped.

However, if that doesn't work out, we can represent you at the Magistrates Court, Crown Court and beyond.

Get immediate expert support with your Police Station matter, no matter the time of day

Carters Solicitors are experts in Police Station matters. We are committed to providing an honest and dedicated service that puts you first.

Our only interest is to ensure that you receive the best possible result.

We operate a 24/7/365 service, meaning we are at your disposable. No matter the time of day, we are here for you.

It's important to have the right representation the first time

For the best outcome, you need the right legal representation from the start. This helps ensure that you are best represented from the case's inception to the conclusion, achieving the best possible result.

Our knowledgeable, friendly experts can help you get the best possible result, saving you time, money and stress.

We are available 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We'll be here for you even when you need it most.

Get in touch with us today to see how we can help achieve the best result in your case.

Call Us Now: 020 7931 9098 Other Contact Methods

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do you have questions? We're here to answer them.

Never. Without a legal representative, anything you say can be used against you and might be misinterpreted or taken out of context. Legal representation helps you avoid self-incrimination and protect your rights.

You are guaranteed free advice at the Police Station, no matter your income. However, if you can, we always recommend that you instruct privately so that you will receive the best service and outcome possible.

No Further Action means that the police have decided not to pursue the case against you. However, if new evidence emerges, they may reopen the investigation.

If you are charged, you will receive a court date to answer the charges against you. In severe cases, you may be remanded/held in custody until your court appearance.

You can contact us anytime through our contact page for legal support. We are available around the clock to help you navigate your police station matter and achieve the best outcome in your case.

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