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An interview at the police station for a criminal investigation is a very daunting experience. Actions taken and words spoken during the interview can determine the overall outcome of the criminal investigation so whether you've been physically arrested or invited down for a "chat" at the police station you should seek legal advice and representation as soon as possible. Anything said to a police officer, even before the official interview, can be used against you so ask for a solicitors as soon as possible. The police may say that it you'll have to wait a long time for a solicitor to be present, this is not the case.

So what are your rights?

Be informed to the right of legal advice at no cost. You may ask for the duty solicitor or inform that that you wish to represented by a particular firm / solicitor.You have the right to a private consultation with a solicitor / legal representative.You have the right to one phone call.You have the right to consult and view the Code of Practice.

All police station interviews must match national legal standards, known as 'PACE', (the Police and Criminal Evidence Act). PACE states what the interviewer must and must not do to ensure that the interview is fair. Before the interview starts you will be cautioned and told that you do not have to say anything but that it may harm your defence if you do not mention something which you later rely on in court.

The interview will be recorded and there will most likely be two police officers present who will ask questions and take notes. Take your time to think about any questions that are asked and if the police officers provide any evidence during the interview make sure you carefully view or read what they have. During your private consultation your solicitor will have advised you on whether to answer the questions or remain silent and will offer advice throughout the interview if needed. Interviews can be very long, depending on the criminal investigation, so it is advisable that you take regular breaks.

After the interview there are three potential outcomes following a police station interview; charged, bailed back or no further action (NFA):

If you are charged you can be taken to the Magistrates' court the next morning or released to attend the magistrates court by appointment.Bailed back means that you will be given a date and time to attend the police station again to find out whether you will be charged with the criminal offence(s) being investigated.No further action means that the case is dropped. The normally means the end of the criminal investigation although if more evidence is discovered you may hear from the police again.

MJP solicitors offer advice and representation at police station interviews. Our solicitors are fully police station accredited and have many years of experience in defending client's interests at the police station.

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