Going to be arrested? Request a solicitor NOW. Ask for Robert Cashman, Tuckers Duty Solicitor
Request representationCurrent custody checkAgency cover
URGENT HELP

Going to be Arrested? Here's What to Do

Stay calm. You have rights protected by the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE). The most important thing is to request a FREE solicitor immediately. Don't answer questions until you have legal advice.

Ask for Robert Cashman, Tuckers Duty Solicitor — The DSCC have our details

Request representationCurrent custody checkAgency cover

We aim to respond as quickly as possible. If detained, ask custody staff to contact a solicitor.ly

Under Section 58 of PACE 1984, you have an absolute right to consult a solicitor privately and free of charge. This right can only be delayed in very limited circumstances for serious arrestable offences. Tell the Custody Sergeant: 'I want a solicitor.'

DO

Ask for Robert Cashman, Tuckers Duty Solicitor (Contact pathways)

DON'T

Accept 'it will be quicker without one'

Legal basis: PACE 1984, s.58

4

Say Nothing About the Allegation

You have the right to remain silent. While the caution warns that silence 'may harm your defence', a solicitor will advise you on whether to answer questions, give a prepared statement, or remain silent. Do not attempt to 'clear things up' without advice.

DO

Say 'no comment' to questions about the offence

DON'T

Try to explain or talk your way out of it

Legal basis: PACE Code C, para 10.5

5

Wait for Your Solicitor Before Interview

Under PACE Code C, paragraph 6.6, you should not be interviewed until you have received legal advice (unless delay would cause unreasonable delay or risk harm). Insist on waiting for your solicitor to arrive and consult with you privately before any interview.

DO

Insist on waiting for your solicitor

DON'T

Agree to interview without legal advice

Legal basis: PACE Code C, para 6.6

Detention Time Limits Under PACE 1984

24h

Standard Maximum

Section 41 PACE 1984 — The basic time limit for detention without charge[3]

36h

Superintendent Extension

Section 42 PACE 1984 — For indictable offences, authorised by Superintendent[4]

96h

Court Warrant Maximum

Sections 43-44 PACE 1984 — Magistrates' warrant for serious offences only[5]

The detention clock starts from your arrival at the police station (the "relevant time" under Section 41(2)). Your solicitor can challenge continued detention at review hearings.

We Cover All Kent Custody Suites

Medway (Gillingham)
North Kent (Gravesend)
Canterbury
Folkestone
Maidstone (Voluntary)
Tonbridge (Voluntary)

We aim to respond as quickly as possible. If detained, ask custody staff to contact a solicitor.">Emergency Rep|Contact

Article v2.0 — Last updated 11/12/2025

Sources

  1. GOV.UK — PACE Code C 2023 (accessible text)—https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/pace-code-c-2023/pace-code-c-2023-accessible
  2. PACE 1984, section 58 — right to legal advice at the police station—https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1984/60/section/58
  3. PACE 1984, section 76 — exclusion of confessions—https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1984/60/section/76
  4. SRA register — Tuckers Solicitors LLP (127795)—https://www.sra.org.uk/consumers/register/organisation/?sraNumber=127795

General information only — not legal advice. While every care is taken to ensure what is stated is accurate and reflects current law and official guidance, errors may occur and the law changes. Do not rely on this page instead of advice from a qualified solicitor about your own situation. Legal services are provided through Tuckers Solicitors LLP (SRA ID: 127795) where applicable. If you believe something on this page is incorrect, please contact us and say you are reporting a content error.