Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
England and Wales.
In brief
- Released under investigation is the everyday name for release without bail while the investigation continues. It is not a defined term in PACE.
- The applicable-bail-period rules in sections 47ZB to 47ZG apply to pre-charge bail. I have not found a PACE section that sets a maximum period for an investigation after release without bail.
- Release without bail does not itself impose bail conditions. Other orders can still exist, and the police can keep property under section 22.
- If you are arrested and held in custody again, the right to consult a solicitor in section 58 applies then.
- Several outcomes are possible, including no further action, a caution, a charge, or a further arrest. There is not one PACE duty I rely on that requires a letter on a set date in every RUI case.
Quick Answer: Released under investigation (RUI) means you have been released without bail while the investigation continues. There is usually no return date and no bail conditions. How long it lasts varies; ask for an update.
I attend Kent police stations within about 45 minutes of Maidstone. If this applies to you, speak to a Kent police station solicitor.
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In brief
In my experience advising clients in Kent, RUI cases often drag on for months. Early solicitor involvement helps you understand status changes and respond to further contact.
What Is Released Under Investigation?
“Released under investigation” is commonly used to describe release without bail while the police continue investigating. If you're unsure what your current status is (bail vs release without bail), ask your solicitor and ask the police what conditions (if any) apply.
RUI vs Police Bail: Key Differences
Police bail is a specific legal framework which can include conditions and return dates. If bail applies in your case, you should get the exact bail notice/conditions and take advice.
See: Police bail explained.
How Long Can RUI Last?
Investigation timescales vary widely. If you have not heard anything for a long time, your solicitor can ask for an update.
What Happens During RUI?
While you are Released Under Investigation:
- Release without bail does not itself impose bail conditions
- The police may contact you for further information or interview
- You should keep your contact details up to date with the investigating officer
Possible Outcomes
Eventually, the police will conclude their investigation and make a decision:
- No Further Action (NFA): The case is dropped – no charges, no caution, matter closed
- Charge: You will be summoned to court or re-arrested and charged
- Re-arrest: Police may arrest you again for further questioning
If you're unsure what outcome has been recorded, ask for confirmation in writing.
Your Rights During RUI
While RUI carries no formal conditions, you still have rights:
- If you are arrested and held in custody again, you can consult a solicitor privately under PACE section 58. That section applies to a person arrested and held in custody. It is not a freestanding right while you are at home on RUI.[1]
- You can request updates on the investigation through your solicitor.
What to Do If You're Released Under Investigation
- Get legal advice – A solicitor can advise you on the strength of the case and likely outcomes
- Stay contactable – Keep your phone number and address up to date with the police
- Gather evidence – If you have evidence that supports your account, secure it now
- Request updates – Your solicitor can contact the investigating officer for progress updates
- Be patient but prepared – The matter may take time, but you should be ready to respond when contacted
Sources
- Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) s.58 (legal advice when arrested and held in custody)—https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1984/60/section/58
- PACE s.41 (limit on detention without charge, including release under s.41(7))—https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1984/60/section/41
- PACE s.47ZB (applicable bail period — applies to pre-charge bail, not release without bail)—https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1984/60/section/47ZB
- PACE s.22 (retention of seized property)—https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1984/60/section/22
- GOV.UK: Arrested? Your rights—https://www.gov.uk/arrested-your-rights
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 number 592449) where applicable. If you believe something on this page is incorrect, please contact us and say you are reporting a content error.
Key Takeaways
- ✓RUI means you're released while the investigation continues
- ✓Unlike bail, there are no conditions and no return date
- ✓I have not found a PACE section that sets a maximum period for an investigation after release without bail. Pre-charge bail has an applicable bail period. Investigations can continue for a long time.
- ✓Outcomes include NFA, caution, charge, or re-arrest
- ✓Seek legal advice and stay contactable
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Released Under Investigation (RUI) mean?
Released Under Investigation means you have been released from police custody without charge, but the investigation is ongoing. Unlike bail, there are no conditions and no set date to return.
How long can Released Under Investigation last?
I have not found a PACE section that sets a maximum period for an investigation after release without bail. Sections 47ZB to 47ZG limit pre-charge bail. An investigation can continue for a long time. A solicitor can ask the officer in the case for an update.
What is the difference between RUI and bail?
With bail, you can have conditions and a date to return. Release without bail does not itself impose those conditions. The 2017 Act created a presumption against pre-charge bail. The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 removed that presumption.
Can I travel abroad while Released Under Investigation?
Generally yes, as RUI carries no conditions. However, you should be contactable by police. If charged, you may need to appear at court, so extended travel should be considered carefully.
What happens after being Released Under Investigation?
Eventually, police will decide: charge you, issue a caution, take no further action (NFA), or re-arrest you for further questioning. You should receive written notification of the outcome.
Need a solicitor at the police station?
This page explains RUI in general terms. It's not an offer of free advice after release.
Call only for current Kent police custody or a booked voluntary interview.
Do not use this number for police enquiries — we are NOT the police and we cannot help. Do not call for crime reports, switchboard transfers, free advice after release, after a past interview, or general case updates. For police assistance use 999 or 101.