Voluntary Interview - Have You Been Invited?

Being suspected of a criminal offence is daunting.  The Police can either make an arrest, if the necessity arises, or alternatively invite a suspect to attend the Police Station voluntarily.

Please do not be fooled into thinking a voluntary interview is optional or that this approach means the consequences will be less severe than an arrest, it is not.  The Police request voluntary interviews for serious criminal offences as well as minor incidents. 

It is in the best interest of the suspect to comply with the voluntary interview process in a timely manner as failure to do so will most likely culminate in an arrest, which not only wastes time, but also subjects the suspect to a different set of compulsory rules such as the Police taking photos, DNA and fingerprints which will be submitted into a Police database under Code D of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE). 

Whether you have heard it before or not, let it be made clear, there is no such thing as an informal chat with the Police.  The purpose of an arrest or voluntary interview is for the Police or relevant authority to ascertain evidence by way of questioning within a recorded interview to prove or disprove any involvement in a criminal offence.  If the Police believe there is sufficient evidence to charge, the case could end up in Court and the suspect may be at risk of being convicted of a criminal offence which will cause reputational damage.

Police Station interviews are governed by Code C of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE).  All suspects are entitled to advice from a Solicitor or Legal Representative if they wish.  Access to legal advice may be gained via the Legal Aid government scheme or a private Solicitor who charges a fixed fee such as Kelly Blake Legal.

If you have been invited to a voluntary interview, please do not delay, make contact today.