What Happens If You Don't Attend a Voluntary Police Interview in England?

By Police Station Agent – Representing You When It Matters Most

When the police invite you to a voluntary interview, it may not seem urgent — after all, it’s “voluntary,” right? But choosing not to attend can have serious consequences.

At Police Station Agent, we help clients every day who have been invited to attend interviews under caution. Below, we explain exactly what can happen if you refuse, and why having a solicitor with you is essential.

What Is a Voluntary Police Interview?

A voluntary interview — also known as a Caution Plus Three interview — is a formal police interview carried out under caution, but without arrest. It’s often arranged in advance and takes place at a police station.

Even though you’re not under arrest, the police will still caution you:

“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. Anything you do say may be given in evidence.”

This is not a friendly chat — it’s part of a criminal investigation, and anything you say can be used in court.

Can I Refuse to Attend?

Yes — you’re not legally required to go. That’s why it’s called “voluntary.” But refusing the invitation doesn’t mean the matter ends there.

What Could Happen If I Refuse to Attend a Voluntary Police Interview in England

🚔 1. You Could Be Arrested

If you refuse to attend, the police may arrest you to carry out the interview. This could happen at your home, workplace, or even in public, leading to unnecessary embarrassment and stress.

Being arrested also means:

• You could be held in custody for hours or overnight,

• The police can take your fingerprints, DNA, and photograph,

• You’ll lose control over when and where the interview happens.

⚖️ 2. Your Legal Position Could Weaken

If you attend voluntarily, you can prepare with a solicitor and understand the allegations beforehand. If you're arrested, you may be questioned under pressure with less time to prepare or think clearly.

Police may view your refusal to attend as uncooperative, which could impact how they approach the case — even if that perception isn’t fair.

🕐 3. You Lose Flexibility

Voluntary interviews are usually scheduled at a convenient time. If you're arrested, the police choose the time and location — not you. If you don't attend a voluntary Police interview in England what are the consequences?

Should I Attend the Interview?

Yes — but only with a solicitor. or a Police Station Rep. Police voluntary interviews are often used in cases involving:

• Sexual offences

• Assault

• Theft or fraud

• Drug offences

• Domestic incidents

This is a critical stage in the investigation — and your solicitor can make a massive difference.

Why Use Police Station Agent?

At Police Station Agent, we provide 24/7 expert legal representation for voluntary interviews across Kent East.

We will:

✅ Obtain disclosure in advance of the interview✅ Advise you on whether to answer questions or remain silent✅ Prepare a legal strategy tailored to your case✅ Be with you at the interview to protect your rights

Final Thought: Take It Seriously — and Take a Lawyer With You

Voluntary interviews might seem informal, but they are part of a formal investigation. Many people are charged or cautioned based on what they say — or fail to say — during these interviews.

Don’t take that risk.

📞 Contact Police Station Agent

Robert Cashman

Criminal Defence Solicitor & Police Station Representative

📱 Call 01732 247427

📧 Email: cashmanr@tuckerssolicitors.com

🌐 Website: www.policestationagent.com