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.
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
- Client or family contacts a firm or the DSCC requesting a duty solicitor.
- Custody staff create or update the custody record when the detainee is booked in.
- The firm instructs cover with client details, station, and references.
- 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
The information on this website is general information only and is not legal advice on any specific case. If you are due to attend a police interview or require police station representation, you should obtain advice based on your own circumstances. Legal services are provided through Tuckers Solicitors LLP (SRA 127795) where applicable.