I’ve been asked to attend a voluntary police interview. Do I need a solicitor?
The short answer is yes.
Many people confuse a voluntary police interview with being interviewed as a witness — but they’re not the same thing.
A voluntary interview can be just as serious as an interview following an arrest, so you need to make sure you have the best legal advice.
What is a voluntary interview with the police?
The police may contact you by telephone or turn up at your home address saying they wish to speak with you regarding a particular matter. They’ll say it’s a ‘voluntary interview’ and they may suggest it will be very quick.
If the interview is voluntary, it means you don’t have to attend and you’re free to leave at any time. But, in some circumstances, the police may have the option to arrest you.
What if I choose not to attend the voluntary interview?
It’s much better to attend the voluntary interview if this is offered to you.
If you choose not to attend, the police may decide to arrest you.
What is a voluntary interview under caution?
Once you are cautioned, anything you say will be recorded. The contents of the interview may then be used in evidence and/or in court.
If a case gets to the court stage, the fact that you agreed to a voluntary interview will be less relevant, so it’s important you have solid legal representation.
How long does a voluntary police interview take?
The average length of a voluntary interview is about an hour. But every case is different and, ultimately, it will depend on the seriousness of the offence and the complexity of the matter being discussed.
What are my rights in a voluntary police interview?
If you’re called in for a voluntary interview with the police, you’ll have the same rights as you would have if you’d been arrested. You’re entitled to free and independent legal advice — and it’s advisable to take it.
This is because the implications of a voluntary interview are the same as if you’d been arrested. Just because the police decided they could do your interview on a voluntary basis doesn’t mean it’s any less serious.
What happens after a voluntary police interview?
The police will take your contact details so they can be in touch in the future if required, then you will be allowed to leave.
Your solicitor can also provide their details to the police who can contact them directly.
Do I need a solicitor for a voluntary interview?
Getting the right advice at this early stage is vital, so it’s advisable to call a solicitor before your interview begins.
Can I get a free solicitor for a police interview?
Yes. Regardless of your income you are entitled to free and independent legal advice. If you need a solicitor, Harewood Law can help by:
Advising you on the procedure
Obtaining disclosure from the police — sometimes in advance, if we want to speed things up
Advising you on the evidence and the law
Advising you on the best approach in the interview, including how to give your account, creating a prepared statement and when to say ‘no comment’.
Advising you on the possible voluntary police interview outcome
Discussing what happens after a voluntary police interview.
If you’ve been called in for a voluntary interview with the police, contact our offices. We will then speak to the police directly and make all the necessary arrangements.
About Harewood Law
Harewood Law is based in Leeds, but deals with cases nationwide.
You can contact our representatives at any time 24/7.
We can represent you via Legal Aid or on a private basis.
Contact Harewood Law
From 9.00am - 5.00pm, call: 0333 344 8377
After 5.00pm, call: 0333 344 8366
Email: info@harewoodlaw.com
Website: www.harewoodlaw.com
