Police interview help: a simple checklist

This is general information for England & Wales. The right approach depends on the allegation and the evidence.

Quick Answer: Ask for legal advice (PACE s.58).[1] Interview rules are in PACE Code C and interviews are recorded under Codes E/F.[2] [3] [4] Silence can have legal implications in some circumstances (CJPOA s.34).[5]

Do

  • Ask for a solicitor and take advice before you answer questions (PACE s.58).[1]
  • Read the caution carefully and ask for clarification if you don’t understand it (Code C).[2]
  • Take breaks if you are tired, unwell, or not understanding what is being asked (Code C).[2]

Don’t

  • Don’t guess or speculate.
  • Don’t try to “clear it up” without advice.
  • Don’t assume “no comment” is always risk-free (CJPOA s.34 can apply in some cases).[5]

Related guides

Sources

  1. Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) s.58 (right to legal advice)—https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1984/60/section/58
  2. Home Office: PACE Code C (December 2023) – detention, treatment and questioning (PDF)—https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6580543083ba38000de1b792/PACE+Code+C+2023.pdf
  3. Home Office: PACE Code E (2016) – audio recording of interviews (PDF)—https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a8092dbe5274a2e87dba95d/52344_00_Pace_Code_E_Accessible_v0.3.pdf
  4. Home Office: PACE Code F (2013) – visual recording of interviews (PDF)—https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a7d4e9740f0b60a7f1a9b6d/2013_PACE_Code_F.pdf
  5. Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 s.34 (adverse inferences from silence in certain circumstances)—https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1994/33/section/34

Note: UK legislation changes. If something is urgent or unclear, get advice for your specific situation.