Booking In Procedure in Kent Police Stations
I meet clients at booking-in across Kent: North Kent, Medway, Canterbury and beyond. The first hour sets the tone: identity checks, rights, custody record, and whether you're interviewed that day.
Understanding what happens during the booking in procedure at Kent police stations can help you know your rights and what to expect.
What is the Booking In Procedure?
When you're brought to a police station, you'll go through a booking in procedure. This is the process by which the custody officer records your detention and ensures your rights are protected.1
The Custody Officer's Responsibilities
The custody officer has specific responsibilities under PACE Code C:2
- To determine whether there is sufficient evidence to charge you
- To ensure your rights are explained and protected
- To authorise your detention if necessary
- To ensure you're treated properly while in custody
- To arrange for legal advice if requested
What Happens During Booking In
1. Personal Details
The custody officer will record your personal details, including:
- Your name and address
- Date of birth
- Occupation
- Any medical conditions or medication
2. The Caution
You will be given the police caution:3 "You do not have to say anything, but it may harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned something which you later rely on in court."
3. Your Rights
The custody officer must inform you of your rights:4
- Right to free legal advice
- Right to have someone informed of your arrest
- Right to consult the Codes of Practice
- Right to medical attention if needed
4. Property
Your property will be searched and recorded. Items that may be used to harm yourself or others will be removed for safekeeping.
5. Custody Record
All details of your detention will be recorded in the custody record, including times, decisions made, and any requests you make.
Requesting Legal Advice
During booking in, you should request legal advice if you haven't already.5 The custody officer must:
- Inform you of your right to free legal advice
- Allow you to consult with a solicitor
- Not interview you until you have had the opportunity to speak to a solicitor (unless you waive this right)
- Allow you to speak to a solicitor in private
Medical Attention
If you have any medical conditions or need medication, inform the custody officer immediately.6 They have a duty to ensure your health and welfare while in custody.
Vulnerable Adults
If you're a vulnerable adult, the custody officer must arrange for an appropriate adult to be present.7 This is in addition to your right to legal advice.
Get Expert Legal Representation
During the booking in procedure, it's essential to request legal advice. We provide free day, evening, weekend and bank holiday legal advice and representation at police stations within about 45 minutes of Maidstone.
Call us immediately on Contact pathways to arrange representation.
References
- Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, Code C, paragraph 3.1
- Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, Code C, paragraph 3.2
- Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, Code C, paragraph 10.5
- Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, Code C, paragraph 3.1
- Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, Code C, paragraph 6.1
- Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, Code C, paragraph 9.5
- Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, Code C, paragraph 3.15