Understanding Police Warrants and Interviews in Kent

Being arrested or discovering there’s a warrant in your name can be distressing and confusing. Whether you’ve been taken to a police station or you're worried about a missed court date, knowing your rights—and what to expect—can make all the difference.

This guide focuses on police warrants and interviews in Kent and outlines what happens at the police station, including Fail to Appear warrants, custody procedures, and when you need to request legal representation.

What Is a Police Warrant in Kent?

A police warrant is an official document issued by a magistrate or judge. It authorises the police to take one or more of the following actions:

• Arrest an individual

• Search a home, car, or business

• Seize property or evidence

  
  

Warrants are issued when the court believes there's reasonable suspicion that an offence has been committed, and police action is necessary to progress the case.

📈 In 2022, more than 300,000 arrest warrants were issued across England and Wales.

What Happens If You're Arrested in Kent?

If you're arrested in Kent, the police will take you to a local police station—usually the closest to where the arrest occurred. Common stations include:

• Medway

• Maidstone

• Canterbury

• Folkestone

• North Kent (Gravesend)

• Tonbridge or Margate (depending on staffing)

  
  

What Happens at the Police Station? – The Booking-In Process

Once you're brought to the custody suite, the custody sergeant oversees a formal booking process. This is governed by PACE (Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984). Here's what to expect:

Step 1: Legal Review and Risk Assessment

The custody officer confirms:

• Whether the arrest is lawful

• Any health, welfare, or safety risks

• Whether you are vulnerable (e.g. under 18, mental health issues, learning difficulties)

  
  

Step 2: Recording Your Personal Details

Officers will take your:

• Full name

• Date of birth

• Address

• Nationality

  
  

They will also log the time and location of arrest and the reason for your detention.

Step 3: Your Legal Rights Explained

You will be informed of your rights:

• You have the right to free legal advice

• You can have someone informed of your arrest

• You have the right to see the PACE Codes of Practice

  
  

You may be asked to sign a form to confirm your rights were explained.

Step 4: Searches and Seizure of Property

You may be searched, and officers will remove and log your belongings (wallet, phone, watch, etc.). Items considered evidence may be kept.

Step 5: Biometric Processing

You may have the following taken:

• Photograph (mugshot)

• Fingerprints (scanned electronically)

• DNA sample (usually a cheek swab)

  
  

Step 6: Interview Under Caution

You may be interviewed under caution. Anything you say can be used as evidence. ➡️ This is the most important stage where you must have legal advice.

What Is a “Fail to Appear” (FTA) Warrant?

A Fail to Appear (FTA) or bench warrant is issued by the court when you miss a scheduled hearing without a valid excuse. It is a criminal offence under the Bail Act 1976. In Kent, the court may instruct police to:

• Arrest you at home or work

• Use forced entry if the warrant allows

• Transport you to a police station or directly to court

  
  

Consequences of an FTA Warrant

• You may be held overnight or over the weekend if court is closed

• Bail may be revoked

• You may be remanded in custody

• It could affect the outcome of your case

  
  

Failing to appear without a valid excuse is taken very seriously by the courts.

Resisting Arrest: Know the Risks

If you resist arrest—physically or verbally—you may face further charges, such as:

• Obstructing police

• Assaulting a constable

• Attempting to evade justice

  
  

📊 Research shows resisting arrest can increase sentence length by 15% on average. Stay calm. Comply with officers. Exercise your legal rights through a solicitor, not confrontation.

What If a Loved One Is Arrested in Kent?

If someone you care about is arrested, it’s natural to panic. But here’s how you can help:

• Stay calm and focused

• Call Kent police stations to find out where they’re being held

• Encourage them to ask for a solicitor

• Be available for support after their release or interview

  
  

You may not be told why they’ve been arrested, but police can usually confirm which station they’re in.

Who We Can Help – Important Service Information

We are a Kent-based police station legal support service. Here’s how we work:

We can help you if:

• You’re being interviewed at a police station in Kent

• You’ve been arrested or invited to a voluntary interview under caution

• You do not already have a solicitor

  
  

We cannot help if:

• You already have a solicitor on record

• You’re outside of the Kent area

  
  

If your matter proceeds to court, we have trusted links with local legal aid solicitors in Kent who may represent you if you’re eligible.

Need Help at a Kent Police Station?

If you’ve been arrested or asked to attend a voluntary interview in Kent, get in touch now. Early legal advice can protect your rights and prevent serious mistakes.

👉 Visit our homepage: Police Station Agent – Legal Support in Kent

Conclusion

Navigating the complexities of police warrants and interviews can be daunting. Understanding your rights and the procedures involved is crucial. Whether you find yourself in a situation involving a police warrant or are supporting someone who is, knowing what to expect can alleviate some of the stress. Always seek legal advice when in doubt. Your rights matter, and having the right support can make all the difference.