Search Results

Being arrested or discovering there’s a warrant in your name can be distressing and confusing. Whether you’ve been taken to a police station or you're worried about a missed court date, knowing your rights—and what to expect—can make all the difference. This guide focuses on police warrants and interviews in Kent and outlines what happens at the police station, including Fail to Appear warrants , custody procedures, and when you need to request legal representation . What Is a Police Warrant in Kent? A police warrant is an official document issued by a magistrate or judge . It authorises the police to take one or more of the following actions: Arrest an individual Search a home, car, or business Seize property or evidence Warrants are issued when the court believes there's reasonable suspicion that an offence has been committed , and police action is necessary to progress the case. 📈 In 2022, more than 300,000 arrest warrants were issued across England and Wales. What Happens If You're Arrested in Kent? If you're arrested in Kent , the police will take you to a local police station—usually the closest to where the arrest occurred. Common stations include: Medway Maidstone Canterbury Folkestone North Kent (Gravesend) Tonbridge or Margate (depending on staffing) What Happens at the Police Station? – The Booking-In Process Once you're brought to the custody suite, the custody sergeant oversees a formal booking process. This is governed by PACE (Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984) . Here's what to expect: Step 1: Legal Review and Risk Assessment The custody officer confirms: Whether the arrest is lawful Any health, welfare, or safety risks Whether you are vulnerable (e.g. under 18, mental health issues, learning difficulties) Step 2: Recording Your Personal Details Officers will take your: Full name Date of birth Address Nationality They will also log the time and location of arrest and the reason for your detention . Step 3: Your Legal Rights Explained You will be informed of your rights: You have the right to free legal advice You can have someone informed of your arrest You have the right to see the PACE Codes of Practice You may be asked to sign a form to confirm your rights were explained. Step 4: Searches and Seizure of Property You may be searched, and officers will remove and log your belongings (wallet, phone, watch, etc.). Items considered evidence may be kept. Step 5: Biometric Processing You may have the following taken: Photograph (mugshot) Fingerprints (scanned electronically) DNA sample (usually a cheek swab) Step 6: Interview Under Caution You may be interviewed under caution. Anything you say can be used as evidence. ➡️ This is the most important stage where you must have legal advice. What Is a “Fail to Appear” (FTA) Warrant? A Fail to Appear (FTA) or bench warrant is issued by the court when you miss a scheduled hearing without a valid excuse. It is a criminal offence under the Bail Act 1976 . In Kent, the court may instruct police to: Arrest you at home or work Use forced entry if the warrant allows Transport you to a police station or directly to court Consequences of an FTA Warrant You may be held overnight or over the weekend if court is closed Bail may be revoked You may be remanded in custody It could affect the outcome of your case Failing to appear without a valid excuse is taken very seriously by the courts. Resisting Arrest: Know the Risks If you resist arrest—physically or verbally—you may face further charges, such as: Obstructing police Assaulting a constable Attempting to evade justice 📊 Research shows resisting arrest can increase sentence length by 15% on average. Stay calm. Comply with officers. Exercise your legal rights through a solicitor, not confrontation. What If a Loved One Is Arrested in Kent? If someone you care about is arrested, it’s natural to panic. But here’s how you can help: Stay calm and focused Call Kent police stations to find out where they’re being held Encourage them to ask for a solicitor Be available for support after their release or interview You may not be told why they’ve been arrested, but police can usually confirm which station they’re in. Who We Can Help – Important Service Information We are a Kent-based police station legal support service . Here’s how we work: We can help you if: You’re being interviewed at a police station in Kent You’ve been arrested or invited to a voluntary interview under caution You do not already have a solicitor We cannot help if: You already have a solicitor on record You’re outside of the Kent area If your matter proceeds to court, we have trusted links with local legal aid solicitors in Kent who may represent you if you’re eligible. Need Help at a Kent Police Station? If you’ve been arrested or asked to attend a voluntary interview in Kent, get in touch now. Early legal advice can protect your rights and prevent serious mistakes. 👉 Visit our homepage: Police Station Agent – Legal Support in Kent Conclusion Navigating the complexities of police warrants and interviews can be daunting. Understanding your rights and the procedures involved is crucial. Whether you find yourself in a situation involving a police warrant or are supporting someone who is, knowing what to expect can alleviate some of the stress. Always seek legal advice when in doubt. Your rights matter, and having the right support can make all the difference.

If you ever find yourself interviewed by the police in the United Kingdom regarding sexual offences, one thing that might come up is the sex offender register. But what exactly is it? How do you get placed on it? What sort of offences can lead to placement on the register? And what are the requirements and consequences of being on it? In this blog post, we'll explore all these questions and more to help you better understand the sex offenders register in the UK. In the UK, the sex offender register is a register maintained by the police that contains the names and details of people convicted, cautioned, or released from prison for sexual offenses. This register was introduced in 1997 and since then, has been an important tool in protecting vulnerable members of society. The criteria for being placed on the sex offenders register differ depending on the age of the offender and their sentence. If someone has been convicted of a sexual offense, they will be placed on the register for a certain period of time. This can range from a minimum of 2 years to a maximum of a lifetime, depending on the offence committed. There are three levels of registration: standard, intermediate, and notification. Standard registration lasts for the period of the sentence given, up to a maximum of 10 years for those over 18 and up to 5 years for those under 18. Intermediate registration is for those who have committed a more serious offense or re-offended, and the duration is up to a maximum of 8 years for those over 18. Notification registration is for those whose offenses involve children and is a lifetime registration. What are the requirements? Once placed on the register, there are certain requirements that the offender must adhere to - including notifying authorities of their address, any job changes or travel plans, and allowing the police to come to their address at any time to check on them. Failure to comply with these requirements can lead to serious consequences – including imprisonment. On registering with the police, an offender must provide specific information including: Their name (and any alias they may use) Their address and any other address where they stay Whether living with a child; or if staying in a household where a child lives for at least 12 hours a day Details of their conviction Details of bank accounts to which they have access Their date of birth Their national insurance number Details of any passports they may hold Sexual offenses that can lead to placement on the register include rape, sexual assault, indecent exposure, and possession of indecent images of children Can the public see the register? Get details of Offenders from it? The register isn’t public, but the police can and do share information with partner agencies when it’s necessary to safeguard children or other members of the public. How often must you re-register? At least annually or within 3 days of any of the above details changing. What happens if you don't register or re-register in time You may commit the offence of breach of your notification requirements. This is an offence that can be tried in either the Magistrates Court or Crown Court. The maximum penalty is 5 Years imprisonment. You may be arrested. Can you help me? This article is written by Robert Cashman, a practicing criminal solicitor with a national firm of Criminal Solicitors. It does not purport to be a exact statement of English law but for guidance only and you should always get independent legal advice about your specific situation. Robert can be contacted via   https://www.policestationagent.com/

In order to get your property back after your release from Police detention in the Uk you need to follow these simple steps: Confirm with the investigating officer that the property is no longer needed as either an exhibit in a court case or that it needs to be retained for further investigation as to its ownership. Property that has been seized by the police will not be returned if it is needed as an exhibit or there is doubt as to your ownership. You will need to provide proof to the investigating officer that the property is actually yours. Generally the police will expect you to provide things like receipts etc if the item has been bought or some kind of proof that the item is legally yours. Please note that things like a V5 for a motor car is not proof of ownership and police will generally expect to see some kind of paper trail as to your ownership of the items concerned . You will need written confirmation from the investigating officer that the item (s) will be returned to you. Usually every police force have their own internal procedures. They can most often be found on the relevant police force's website. You will need the investigating officer's name, force number and telephone number if you wish to make any enquiries about it. Most UK police forces have a contact facility on their website. If not phone the police control room using 101 and they can usually leave a message for the investigating officer who will pick it up when he or she are next on shift. If you are not sure of the details look for any papers that you were given by the police when your were released i.e. bail paperwork. It will probably be on that. Be prepared for a wait Most UK police forces store property at a central location i.e. car pound or a property office. You will need to take any authority from the police officer and in some cases make an appointment in order to pick the property up. The police will only return the property if they can do so legally. If there is any doubt as to its ownership they will retain it. They will normally return the property to its registered owner and only if in doing so that person will not commit a criminal offence. I.e. if you are picking up a motor car they will expect to see your full driving licence and insurance as well as any registration documents. If you do not have a licence, do not have insurance or your documentation is not in order they will not release it to you Please note that if you simply turn up at the police station expecting your property to be returned to you there and then you are likely to be disappointed. Most police forces in the UK will not release property if they do not have a written authorisation from the officer in the case that it can be released . Do not expect your solicitor or legal representative to get the property back for you free of charge or do work you can easily do yourself. Criminal solicitors or legal representatives in England and Wales do not get paid by the legal aid agency to spend time to get property returned from the police in the uk. . With the paltry figure of legal aid funding being what it is any criminal solicitor in the UK can simply not afford to chase police officers to get your property back. Even if they do that property may then become subject to a statutory charge if you have signed legal aid forms . Most solicitors simply do not have time. Be prepared to go to court to get your property back Property can be seized using civil proceedings by the police. Usually this is done there will be a court hearing when you can make representations to the court as to why you should get that property back. This is a civil court matter and is not usually legally aided. You may also decide that you wish to make a complaint to the magistrates court regarding your property and issue proceedings. This is not covered by legal aid and would have to be paid for privately. This article is written by Robert Cashman, a practicing criminal solicitor with a national firm of Criminal Solicitors. It does not purport to be a exact statement of English law but for guidance only and you should always get independent legal advice about your specific situation. Robert can be contacted via   https://www.policestationagent.com/

Introduction In the realm of criminal justice, the role of a police station representative is crucial. They are the first line of legal defense for individuals who find themselves in police custody. This post will delve into the responsibilities and duties of a police station representative, shedding light on their significance in providing legal advice during criminal proceedings. Understanding the Role of a Police Station Representative A police station representative, sometimes also known as a duty solicitor, plays an integral part in ensuring that individuals' rights are upheld during their interactions with law enforcement. They provide legal representation to those detained or questioned by the police, ensuring that their clients understand their rights and are treated fairly throughout the process. The primary responsibility of a police station representative is to offer immediate legal advice to individuals held at the police station. This could be someone arrested on suspicion of committing a crime or someone voluntarily attending an interview under caution. Providing Legal Advice One of the key tasks performed by a police station representative is providing legal advice to clients. This involves explaining complex legal concepts in simple terms so that clients can make informed decisions about how they wish to proceed. The advice given by these representatives can cover various aspects, such as whether or not to answer questions during an interview, understanding charges brought against them, potential outcomes if charged with an offense, and possible defenses they could use in court. Moreover, they also advise on matters related to bail and conditions imposed upon release from custody. In essence, they guide individuals through every step of their journey through the criminal justice system. Ensuring Fair Criminal Proceedings Another critical aspect of what a police station representative does involves ensuring fair criminal proceedings. They play an instrumental role in safeguarding clients' rights during interviews under caution - whether these take place at a police station following arrest or elsewhere voluntarily. The representative will be present during these interviews, ensuring that the police conduct them in accordance with legal guidelines. They are there to intervene if they believe their client is being unfairly treated or if the police breach any rules during the interview process. In addition, police station representatives also liaise with the police on behalf of their clients. This can involve negotiating for their release, challenging any conditions imposed upon them, or even making representations about the appropriateness of certain charges. Providing Legal Representation Aside from offering legal advice and ensuring fair proceedings, a police station representative also provides legal representation for their clients. This means they act on behalf of their client in all interactions with law enforcement and other legal entities. They may represent their client during court proceedings, arguing on their behalf and presenting evidence to support their case. They also handle all paperwork related to the case, including preparing statements and gathering evidence. Conclusion In conclusion, a police station representative plays a pivotal role in navigating individuals through the complexities of criminal proceedings. From providing essential legal advice to ensuring fair treatment during interviews and representing clients in court, they are a crucial part of the justice system. Their work ensures that everyone has access to legal representation when they need it most - at the point when they come into contact with law enforcement. So whether you find yourself at a police station voluntarily or under arrest, understanding what a police station representative does can provide reassurance and clarity during an undoubtedly stressful time. This article is written by Robert Cashman, a practicing criminal solicitor with a national firm of Criminal Solicitors. It does not purport to be a exact statement of English law but for guidance only and you should always get independent legal advice about your specific situation. Robert can be contacted via   https://www.policestationagent.com/

In the criminal justice system of England and Wales, police bail often raises questions among the public. Many wonder about its definition, the criteria for being placed on bail, and the conditions that can be imposed. Understanding police bail is vital, as it affects both individuals and the wider community. This guide will unpack the various aspects of police bail, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate this complex system effectively. What is Police Bail? Police bail allows individuals who have been arrested to be released temporarily while further investigation takes place. This type of bail does not imply guilt or innocence; rather, it is designed to prevent interference with the ongoing investigation. For example, someone arrested for shoplifting might be released on bail while police gather evidence from store security footage. How Can You Be Put on Police Bail? When someone is arrested, the police may grant bail at the station or at a later date, based on various factors. These factors often include the nature of the alleged offense—violent crimes may warrant stricter decisions than petty theft. For instance, if a person has no previous arrests and shows strong community ties, they are more likely to be granted bail. Conversely, those with prior convictions may face more stringent scrutiny. When Is Police Bail Commonly Used? Police bail is frequently applied in cases where investigations require additional time. For instance, in 2022, approximately 75% of cases involving serious assault saw police bail utilized, as police needed time for forensic analysis and witness interviews. This practice allows suspects to remain in the community while essential evidence is gathered. Understanding Bail Conditions After Arrest in England and Wales When an individual is arrested in England and Wales, they may be released on bail either by the police or the courts while investigations or legal proceedings continue. Bail conditions are imposed to manage risks, ensure compliance, and protect victims. Below is an overview of common bail conditions and what they entail: 1. Reporting Requirements The individual may be required to report to a specific police station at regular intervals. This ensures they remain in contact with authorities while investigations are ongoing. 2. Residence Conditions The suspect might be required to live at a specific address, ensuring they are accessible to the police or court when needed. 3. Non-Contact Orders A common bail condition is prohibiting contact with certain individuals, such as victims, witnesses, or co-defendants, to prevent interference with the investigation. 4. Exclusion Zones The individual may be restricted from entering certain areas, such as the victim’s home, workplace, or other relevant locations linked to the alleged offence. 5. Curfew A curfew condition may be imposed, requiring the individual to remain at a specified address during certain hours, often enforced using electronic tagging. 6. Electronic Tagging To monitor compliance with specific conditions like curfews or exclusion zones, electronic tags may be used. 7. Surrender of Passport To prevent the individual from leaving the country, they may be required to surrender their passport or agree to travel restrictions. 8. Prohibited Activities Certain activities may be restricted, such as attending specific events, consuming alcohol, or using social media platforms to contact particular individuals. 9. Financial Surety In some cases, the individual or a third party may be required to provide a financial guarantee to secure bail. If the conditions are breached, the surety may be forfeited. What Happens If You Breach Police Bail? Breach of police bail is a significant offense and can lead to serious repercussions. A breach occurs when a person disregards the conditions of their bail, such as failing to attend scheduled check-ins or contacting a victim. What the Police May Do If a breach is suspected, Police has the authority to re-arrest the individual. After re-arrest, they may detain the person until the next available court hearing or reissue bail with stricter terms, though this is used rarely reflecting the seriousness of the violation. What the Magistrates May Do If the breach is reviewed by the Magistrates' Court, several actions can be taken. They may choose to: Revoke bail entirely and remand the individual in custody : This is common if the breach is serious. Alter the conditions of bail to be more stringent : For example, increasing check-in frequency may be deemed necessary. Maintain original bail conditions : If the breach is minor and the individual has a strong compliance history. The Magistrates will closely assess the specifics of the breach and the individual's criminal history when determining the next steps. How to Get Your Bail Conditions Changed If you find certain bail conditions challenging to meet, you may apply for a modification. This typically involves submitting a request to the local court, explaining why the change is necessary. Providing compelling evidence or documentation can strengthen your case. Why You Need Legal Advice Navigating the process of changing bail conditions can be daunting, making legal advice invaluable. A solicitor can help structure your application effectively. They know the laws and can represent you in court, ensuring your rights are protected and your arguments are compelling. Whose Responsibility Is It to Abide by Bail Conditions? The individual released on bail must follow the imposed conditions. Failing to do so can lead to re-arrest and negatively affect their case. Understanding exactly what is expected is crucial. If there is any confusion, seeking clarification from a solicitor is essential. What You Should Do If the Alleged Victim Contacts You Receiving communication from an alleged victim can be troubling and may violate bail conditions. It is crucial to avoid any engagement even texting back or talking to them will be a breach. Instead, promptly inform your legal representative to receive guidance on handling the situation correctly without further complicating your case. How Long Can You Be Put on Police Bail? Typically, police bail can last up to three months. If investigations require more time, extensions may be granted—with the court's involvement. However, individuals cannot be placed on police bail indefinitely. The law mandates specific limits to protect the rights of the suspect. Final Thoughts Understanding police bail in England and Wales is crucial for anyone involved in the criminal justice system. From how bail is granted to the implications of breaching bail conditions, being informed about the process can significantly impact your experience. By staying educated and seeking legal aid when necessary, you can better navigate your rights and responsibilities within this framework. Always remember that the legal landscape can be complex, but with the right support and knowledge, you can face these challenges with confidence. Always prioritize staying informed to be prepared for potential encounters with the justice system.

Have you been arrested or asked to attend a police interview under caution? If you're facing a criminal investigation—whether for drink driving , assault , or serious sexual offences —you need expert legal advice right away. I’m Robert Cashman , a specialist criminal defence solicitor based in Kent , offering 24/7 police station representation . I represent clients across Sevenoaks , Maidstone , Dartford , Medway , and beyond. I also regularly cover clients on behalf of other firms looking for an experienced, reliable police station solicitor in Kent . Why You Need a Solicitor at the Police Station for Police Station Representation Whether you’ve been arrested or invited to a voluntary police interview under caution , having a solicitor present is your legal right . More importantly, it can protect you from saying something that might harm your case. 🔒 Free legal advice is available for everyone at the police station—don’t go it alone. Key Reasons to Instruct a Police Station Solicitor Immediately Anything you say can be used in court. The police may already have evidence you’re unaware of. Legal strategy starts before the interview begins. An experienced solicitor may prevent you from being charged. Criminal Offences I Can Assist With As a trusted criminal solicitor in Kent , I represent clients facing a wide range of allegations, including: ✅ Sexual offences (rape, historic allegations, indecent images, grooming) ✅ Drink and drug driving (including failure to provide a specimen) ✅ Assault and domestic violence ✅ Driving while disqualified or without insurance ✅ Public order and harassment ✅ Theft, burglary, and fraud ✅ Youth and vulnerable suspect interviews ✅ Voluntary interviews (PACE interviews) Whether you're being investigated or you’re a law firm needing urgent police station cover in Kent , I offer fast, confidential, and strategic representation. Why Instruct Me? 🧠 Expert in Police Station Defence I focus on early-stage criminal defence and police interviews—especially in sensitive sexual offence cases . 📍 Kent-Based and Responsive I’m based in West Kingsdown , covering Tonbridge , Gravesend , Swanley , Canterbury , and surrounding police stations. 🛡️ Discreet and Non-Judgmental Every client is treated with professionalism and respect. Whether you’re a first-time offender or facing a complex allegation, I will protect your rights. 🤝 Trusted by Other Firms I regularly act on behalf of other criminal solicitors who need cover or continuity of representation at short notice. Understanding Your Legal Rights When faced with a police investigation, understanding your legal rights is crucial. Your solicitor will inform you of the best course of action. Most importantly, they provide you with an understanding of the process, ensuring you don’t feel overwhelmed. The Interview Process During police interviews, the approach and demeanor of law enforcement can be intimidating. Your solicitor will be by your side, guiding you through every step. They can help you formulate responses that will best protect your interests. Voluntary Police Interviews: Don’t Be Misled Many clients are told they “don’t need a solicitor” for voluntary interviews. This is misleading. You are still being interviewed under caution—and what you say can be used as evidence in court. ✔️ Legal advice for voluntary interviews is also free . ✔️ I’ll advise you whether to answer, provide a statement, or remain silent. ✔️ I’ll be present to ensure police follow proper procedure. What to Expect from Your Solicitor Navigating the legal system can be complex. Your solicitor should provide clear guidance and support. They will help you understand the charges against you, the evidence the police may have, and the potential ramifications you face. Building Your Defence A strong defence starts long before you enter the police station. From the moment you make contact, your solicitor begins to build your case. This proactive approach can be crucial in preventing charges from being made against you. Need a Criminal Defence Solicitor in Kent? Call Now Your future could be shaped by what happens at the police station. Get the expert help you need—right from the start. 📞 Contact Robert Cashman – Criminal Defence Solicitor Kent Available 24/7 for police station attendance Experienced in serious and sensitive criminal cases Covering Sevenoaks , Maidstone , Dartford , Gravesend , and more 📞 07535 494446 or better still email me @ cashmanr@tuckerssolicitors.com Your peace of mind and legal rights matter. Don’t hesitate to seek the help you deserve from a reliable professional.

Frequently Asked Questions by Members of the Public - Part 1 1, Do I need a Solicitor? Yes you do. Please see below:- 2. Can I get police station representation free? Yes. See below. 3. I have been arrested and want to get in contact with the investigating officer. How do I do that? If you have been arrested and released from the police station you need to find out the name and warrant number of the investigating officer. This will generally be on any paperwork that you were given by the police when you are released. If you ring 101 with the name and warrant number of the investigating officer and ask for the police force where you were dealt with you will generally be able to leave a message for the officer. Please note that most police officers work shifts and may not be at work. Leave your details and telephone number and generally the police officer will get back to you. Be polite and kind! These calls are routinely recorded by the police as a matter of routine, 4. I need to get my mobile phone/property back from the police. How do I do that? If you have been arrested the police may well have seized your property as an exhibit. In the case of a mobile phone they may wish to download the contents of the mobile phone for evidential purposes. They may have requested the PIN number for the phone from you. Police have powers under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act to seize these items and to keep them till any court case. There is no formal time limit. Officers will, however, return items as soon as possible if they are no longer needed. Please note this can be after a considerable period of time. In some police areas there are considerable delays in downloading the contents of mobile phones ranging in months. Please note the police can not be forced to give these items back quickly. It is possible to make an application to the Magistrates Court to get these items back but this is not covered by legal aid and you would have to pay for any representation by a solicitor. 5. My friend/partner/colleague/family member has been arrested. How do I find out about the case? If the person who has been arrested is over 18 the police do not have to tell you anything about what has happened; why he/she has been arrested or details about the case. When arrested and being booked into custody the police will inform the detainee that he has a right to have someone informed of his arrest. This right will usually be exercised when they tell the person concerned which police station he is in. You can ask the police if he is legally represented and the details of the solicitor. The solicitor may be able to give you details of the case but ONLY if the person detained consents in advance. If the person does not consent you will have to ask the person concerned the details when he is released from police custody. This article is written by Robert Cashman, a practicing criminal solicitor with a national firm of Criminal Solicitors. It does not purport to be a exact statement of English law but for guidance only and you should always get independent legal advice about your specific situation. Robert can be contacted via https://www.policestationagent.com/

Have you a voluntary interview at Swanley Police Station? We can help! Police station agent through its links with Tuckers Solicitors and Police Station Duty Solicitor Robert Cashman can provide free legal advice and assistance on any criminal matter where you are being interviewed by police at Swanley Police Station. Located less than 30 mins away we can easily attend on you either remotely or in person when you are being interviewed by the police at this location. Legal advice and assistance is free and paid for by the Legal Aid Agency. This article is written by Robert Cashman, a practicing criminal solicitor with a national firm of Criminal Solicitors. It does not purport to be a exact statement of English law but for guidance only and you should always get independent legal advice about your specific situation. Robert can be contacted via   https://www.policestationagent.com/

If you think you may be arrested by the police or you know that the police are looking for you there are a number of practical things you can do to improve your position: 1. Contact a Criminal Solicitor or Criminal Solicitors Practice immediately. Most Criminal Solicitor Practices/Criminal Solicitors/Police Station Reps operate a free 24 hours a day/7 days a week/ 365 days a year service for attendance at police station interviews. In England and Wales the services of one of the above to assist you when you are interviewed by the police are completely free and are paid for by the Legal Aid Agency provided that the representatives firm holds a contract with the Legal Aid Agency for Police station advice and assistance. 2. Obtain details of the police officer in the case who wishes to speak to you. Most Police officers if you are not in when then have attempted to arrest you will leave their details and a phone number asking you to call them. Record the information and pass it on to your legal representative. He or she will then be able to call the officer and find out what the matter is about. The more detail that you have, the easier it will be. Please note it is usually impossible to find out who wishes to speak to you without these details. Most police forces have a large number of officers and the specific investigating officers may be the only person who knows about your case. 3. Don't Delay. Ring your legal representative immediately. Delay may mean that the police arrest you sooner than you might wish. By ringing your legal representative now you will be enable him to speak to the officer concerned and arrange a arrest by appointment or a voluntary interview. If you leave it for a period of time the officer may arrest you in the meantime and the possibility of a voluntary interview at a time and date of your your convenience may be lost . 4. Don't think the matter will simply go away. If the police are looking for you they will find you. In serious cases you may be even getting someone else into trouble if they assist you to run away from the police. The police will keep searching for you until they arrest you. Simply because you have been hiding from the police does not mean that the matter will simply go away. 5. Speak to your lawyer as soon as possible. The more information you give to your legal representative, the quicker he can advise you about your case. You may have a complete legal defence. You may be not guilty of the offence you thought you were guilty of. Speak to him or her now. This article is written by Robert Cashman, a practicing criminal solicitor with a national firm of Criminal Solicitors. It does not purport to be a exact statement of English law but for guidance only and you should always get independent legal advice about your specific situation. Robert can be contacted via   https://www.policestationagent.com/

Following on from our first post. Available here Voluntary police interview You will be cautioned. "You do not have to say anything". This means what it says. You do not have to say anything. You do NOT have to speak to the police officer if you do not want to. You can speak to them and answer there questions if you wish. The key thing is you do not have to.You can for instance sit in the interview and say to the police "No comment" to every question you are asked. (You can-not however stop them from interviewing you!) "But it may harm your defence, if you do not mention when questioned something which you may later rely on in court." This means if you do not mention in your interview a fact that you could reasonably expected to mention and you rely on later in court i.e. the details of an alibi the court can draw an adverse inference against you. An adverse inference could be, for instance, that the account that you have given at court is a lie. "Anything you do say may be given in evidence". This means that the police may either make a transcript of the interview and show it to the court later on or play the recording of the interview at Court. The police will usually check your understanding of the caution by asking you questions in the interview, for instance, Do you have to speak to us in the interview? What may the court think if you do not speak to us and it could be reasonably expected that you may mention a fact which you later rely on in court? How may the court see what's happened in the interview. They will do that to ensure that you do not, later on claim, that you did not understand the police caution and the significance of your replies. "I am investigating an offence of....." This is the point when they tell you what offence they are investigating and give a brief legal definition of it. If you have done the sensible thing and opted for a solicitor, or brought your own prior to this, this will not come as a shock! One of the advantages of having a solicitor is, it is the solicitors job, to obtain disclosure of as much evidence as he can from the police officer about the offence or offences prior to the police interview. If you have no solicitor the police are under no obligation at all to tell you anything prior to the interview as regards the evidence they hold pointing to your involvement with regards to an offence or details of it. They will not usually tell you anything at all if you have no solicitor, but will seek to spring it on you at interview to see your reaction or response. Instruction of a solicitor prior to any interview will mean the police will have to engage with the solicitor and give him details of the evidence against you. Please note the police do not have to tell your solicitor everything (according to the Court of Appeal) but have to tell them enough so they can advise you whether or not to answer police questions More coming shortly in part 3 - The Interview....Available soon This article is written by Robert Cashman, a practicing criminal solicitor with a national firm of Criminal Solicitors. It does not purport to be a exact statement of English law but for guidance only and you should always get independent legal advice about your specific situation. Robert can be contacted via   https://www.policestationagent.com/ .

This article is written by Robert Cashman, a practicing criminal solicitor with a national firm of Criminal Solicitors. It does not purport to be a exact statement of English law but for guidance only and you should always get independent legal advice about your specific situation. Robert can be contacted via   https://www.policestationagent.com/

What Does a Police Station Representative Do? A Police Station Rep (often called Police Station Representative or Police Station Reps) is a Legal representative instructed by a Criminal Solicitors Practice to assist that firm's client when they are interviewed by the police on suspicion of committing a criminal offence. They will hold a legal qualification of some kind. Currently to be a Police Station representative - "Police station rep" they will usually have to be " accredited". They will either hold a qualification in Criminal Law i.e. a Law degree or will need to pass a exam in Criminal Law. They will then have to submit a portfolio of police station attendances demonstrating their knowledge and practice before undertaking a Practical Test They will hold a legal qualification of some kind. Currently to be a Police Station representative - As a police station representative, they may, if they are self employed they will work long hours. Police interviews can often be at any time of the day or night. Police forces interview detainees all year round. Police station custody suites are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year including public holidays and Xmas. As a Police station rep their advice at the police station could make the difference between the police taking no further action against their client or a lengthy prison sentence. of police station attendances demonstrating your knowledge and practice before undertaking a Practical Test The role of the Police Station Rep is to: - offer advice and support to the client during the interview process; - ensure that the interview is conducted fairly, in accordance with PACE (Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984) and that the client’s human rights are not breached; - take detailed notes of what is said during the interview; - challenge any inconsistencies in the police officer’s account of events. If you have been arrested or interviewed under caution by the police, it is always advisable to have a Police Station Rep present. Having a legal representative with you will help to put you at ease and will ensure that your interests are protected throughout the process. At the beginning of any police interview in England or Wales the police will caution your client. They will say "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." This means that the client has the right to remain silent but anything they do say can be used against them as evidence in Court. They have the right to free and independent legal advice from a Solicitor or police station representative at any time during the police interview process. If they are under 18 years of age, or have a mental disorder which affects their ability to understand what is happening, the police must allow an appropriate adult to be present during any interview. An “appropriate adult” could be a parent, carer, social worker or someone else over 18 who is not connected with the case. If they have been arrested, the police must inform them of their right to free and independent legal advice as soon as possible. If they are interviewed under caution at a police station, the police should give them the opportunity to speak to a Solicitor or police station representative before the interview begins. This article is written by Robert Cashman, a practicing criminal solicitor with a national firm of Criminal Solicitors. It does not purport to be a exact statement of English law but for guidance only and you should always get independent legal advice about your specific situation. Robert can be contacted via   https://www.policestationagent.com/