Police Interviews. |
Police can use anything you say as evidence, even if you're not at the station or in a formal interview. Know your rights when you're approached by police and request legal assistance early.
Our experienced criminal lawyers can attend your police interview to provide guidance and support. Your lawyer can also confidentially discuss the allegations with you and provide advice on the best way to proceed. |
APPROACHED OR STOPPED BY POLICE:You are only required to give police your name and address. |
Police can approach you and ask questions at any time. You are only required to give your name and address, and your age if you're under 18.
The police have to warn you that it is an offence to give a false name and address. If you've been pulled over in a car, you must present your drivers license. Whilst you have the right to remain silent, you should remain polite and find out why they want to talk to you. Keep in mind that they may have body worn cameras operating, and anything you say may be recorded and used against you later. |
ATTENDING THE POLICE STATION:You do not have to attend the police station unless you are under arrest. |
You are under no obligation to attend a police station or go with police unless you are under arrest. If you feel like you are not being given a choice to go with them, you should ask if you are under arrest. If you are not arrested, then you do not have to go.
You may ask police for their contact details and tell them you will contact them after speaking to a lawyer. They may offer to make an appointment time to attend. Police may also call your phone to request an appointment for you to come to the station. You do not have to agree to attend the station. You may ask to call them back after seeking legal advice. If you have been arrested, you will have to go with police. You will be allowed to contact a lawyer or support person once you have arrived at the station. Police can hold you for up to 8 hours for questioning unless they get more time from a magistrate. |
ATTENDING POLICE INTERVIEWS:Refusing to participate cannot be used against you later. |
At not time do you have to agree to an interview. You may be told that giving an interview will help "to clear things up" or to "help your case". Remember that the role of police is to collect evidence against you, and giving any statement can be used against you, even if it's "informal" or "off the record".
If you are suspected of committing an offence and have been called to the station, it is likely you will be charged whether or not you give an interview. It is in your best interest to attend with your lawyer or politely decline any interview. Refusing to participate in an interview cannot be used against you later. Attending an Interview.
Advantages of Attending an Interview.
Disadvantages of Attending an Interview.
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