Have you ever wondered why having a criminal solicitor during a police interview is crucial? In this post, we will explore the vital role they play in protecting your rights if you are arrested in England or Wales. We will also explain a criminal solicitor's function, why the police may discourage having one, and whether or not you'll have to pay for it yourself. Additionally, we'll discuss the role of duty solicitors and their importance.

What is a Criminal Solicitor's Function? Why you need a criminal solicitor in the police station....

A criminal solicitor's function is to represent individuals accused of criminal offenses. Their role is to protect and advance the legal rights of the accused and ensure that the police deal with them properly and fairly.

If you are arrested by the police in England or Wales, you have a right to have a criminal solicitor with you in the police station for any police interview and legal advice at any time if you require it. Legal advice can be given in person or by telephone. All criminal solicitors are independent of the police and must prioritize their clients' interests. They provide invaluable support during police station interviews, ensuring that your rights are protected. They can also advise on whether or not to answer any questions posed by the police and will try to find out what evidence the police hold regarding the criminal offense they are investigating.

Why the Police Do Not Want You to Have a Criminal Solicitor in Interview

Why you need a criminal solicitor in the police station The role of the police is to prevent crimes, protect civilians from harm, and collect evidence for criminal prosecution. They achieve this through investigative interviewing, either voluntarily or when the suspect is under arrest. Despite what most police officers may say during an interview, they are not necessarily impartial. Many officers will, if you request legal advice, seek to drive a wedge between you and your legal adviser. They might say things like, "This is your opportunity to give your side of the story," or "Your solicitor will not be in court; you will be."

Do You Have to Pay for a Criminal Solicitor in a Police Interview or in Court?

In England and Wales, if you are arrested or interviewed voluntarily by the police, you do not have to pay for legal advice at the police station unless you choose to instruct your own solicitor privately. You can opt for a police station duty solicitor instead, who will be free regardless of the offense. A duty solicitor is a criminal solicitor paid by the Legal Aid Agency to provide free legal representation at a particular police station during a rota period.

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.policestationrepkent.co.uk