DSCC and Custody Record Support for Solicitors

In brief: when instructing police station cover, providing the DSCC reference and custody record number helps attendance be arranged promptly and linked to the correct detention.

Call — 01732 247427Text — 07535 494446

Why these references matter

Criminal defence firms instructing freelance police station agents need the attendance logged correctly against the client's custody or DSCC instruction. The custody record number identifies the detention on the custody suite system. A DSCC reference connects the instruction to the national duty solicitor call centre process where applicable.

Typical workflow

  1. Client or family contacts a firm or the DSCC requesting a duty solicitor.
  2. Custody staff create or update the custody record when the detainee is booked in.
  3. The firm instructs cover with client details, station, and references.
  4. The representative attends, obtains disclosure, advises the client, and notes the outcome.

Read our guide: custody record numbers and DSCC references explained.

What to send when instructing police station cover

For criminal defence firms instructing freelance police station cover, include as much of the following as you have available:

  • Client full name and date of birth
  • Police station name and location
  • Custody record number (if in custody)
  • DSCC reference (if allocated)
  • Interview date and time (voluntary interviews)
  • Brief allegation / offence summary
  • Investigating officer name or collar number (if known)
  • Bail or RUI status (if known)
  • Your firm name and contact details

Urgent custody: telephone is preferred. Email and forms are not suitable for immediate attendance requests.

FAQs

What is a DSCC reference?
The Defence Solicitor Call Centre (DSCC) allocates a reference when a firm or client requests duty solicitor contact. It helps match the instruction to the attendance.
What is a custody record number?
When someone is booked into custody, the custody officer creates a custody record with a unique reference. This identifies the detention on the custody suite system.
What should firms send when instructing cover?
Client name, station, custody record number, DSCC reference if available, interview time, allegation summary, and firm contact details.

Related

Police station cover for solicitorsFirm instructionsSend instructionsCover request flowContactTelephone for urgent custody

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.