Police Station Representation Solicitors in Cheltenham
Legal advice and representation during police interviews and investigations
Police Station Advice and Representation
Police station representation involves providing legal advice to individuals who have been arrested or asked to attend a police interview under caution. This is often the first formal stage of a criminal investigation and can have a lasting effect on how a case progresses.
Pembridge Solicitors is based in Cheltenham and advises individuals who are under investigation by the police across Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, and throughout England and Wales. We provide advice before and during police interviews, helping clients understand their rights, the nature of the allegation, and the potential consequences of what is said at interview.
What police station representation involves
Police station representation means having a solicitor advise and support you while the police investigate an alleged offence. This can include attending a voluntary interview, being questioned following arrest, or receiving advice while in custody.
Our solicitors explain the allegation being investigated, advise you on your rights, and ensure that the police follow the correct procedures. The aim is to protect your position and help you avoid making decisions that could affect your case later on.
Types of Offences Commonly Investigated at the Police Station
Police station representation is available for a wide range of alleged offences. These may include, but are not limited to:
Assault and other offences involving violence
Theft, burglary, and robbery
Drug-related offences, including possession and supply
Sexual offences and allegations involving inappropriate behaviour
Fraud, financial crime, and benefit offences
Public order offences
Driving offences, including drink driving and dangerous driving
Allegations involving mobile phones, computers, or online activity
The seriousness of the allegation does not affect the right to legal advice. Representation is available regardless of whether the matter is minor or more serious.
Your Rights at the Police Station
Anyone who is arrested or interviewed under caution has the right to free and independent legal advice. This applies whether the interview follows an arrest or is arranged voluntarily.
You are entitled to be told the nature of the allegation, to consult with a solicitor in private, and to have legal advice during the interview itself. Understanding these rights is important before deciding how to respond to police questions.
Police Interviews Under Caution
A police interview under caution is a formal process in which officers ask questions about an alleged offence. The caution explains that you do not have to answer questions, but that in some circumstances silence may be taken into account later.
Advice given before interview will depend on the allegation, the information disclosed by the police, and your individual circumstances. This may include advice on whether to answer questions, provide a prepared statement, or decline to comment.
Common Issues People Raise
People often seek advice because they are unsure whether they should attend a voluntary interview, what the police already know, or how much information they are required to provide.
Concerns also arise where interviews are arranged at short notice, where limited information has been disclosed in advance, or where there is uncertainty about what may happen after the interview.
Taking advice before interview can help clarify these issues and reduce the risk of misunderstandings.
What Happens After the Police Interview
After an interview, the police may decide to take no further action, continue the investigation, release the individual under investigation, or refer the case for a charging decision.
In some cases, further interviews may be requested, or conditions may be imposed while investigations continue. Advice at this stage can help explain what to expect next and whether any further action is required.
Request a Callback
Your enquiry will be forwarded to the appropriate legal team, who will contact you as soon as possible.
Common questions about police station representation
Do I really need a solicitor at the police station?
Yes. A police interview is a formal part of an investigation, and anything you say can later be used as evidence. A solicitor helps ensure that you understand your rights and that the interview is conducted properly.
Having a solicitor does not suggest guilt. It is about protecting your position from the outset.
What is a voluntary police interview?
A voluntary interview is an interview arranged by the police where you attend by appointment rather than being arrested. Despite the name, it is still a formal interview and should be taken seriously.
You are entitled to legal advice during a voluntary interview, and a solicitor can attend with you to advise and support you.
Can I refuse to answer questions?
You have the right to remain silent, but deciding not to answer questions can sometimes have consequences later in the investigation. This decision should always be made with legal advice.
A solicitor will explain your options and help you decide the most appropriate approach for your situation.
What is police bail or release under investigation?
After an interview, the police may release you on bail or under investigation while further enquiries are carried out. Bail may include conditions, such as reporting requirements or restrictions on contact.
Your solicitor will explain what this means, how long it may last, and what is expected of you.
Can a solicitor help if I have already been interviewed?
Yes. Even if an interview has already taken place, legal advice can still be important. A solicitor can advise you on what may happen next and how to deal with any further contact from the police.
Police Station Legal Advice in Cheltenham
Legal advice and representation at the police station is provided to individuals in Cheltenham, across Gloucestershire, and throughout England and Wales, with nationwide support available by telephone where appropriate.
Speak to police station representation solicitors in Cheltenham
If you have been arrested or asked to attend a police interview, you can speak directly to a solicitor for advice before any interview takes place.
Call 0330 900 0377 to discuss your situation and arrange representation.
How to Find Us
Pembridge Solicitors
Calderwood House
Montpellier Parade
Cheltenham
GL50 1UA