If you decide to give information to the police during a voluntary interview – or Caution Plus 3 – then you need to make sure that you have sought advice from legal experts that can protect your rights.
As a matter of law, you are entitled to legal advice when you are being questioned by the police. You cannot and will not be criticised and nobody can jump to the conclusion that you have done anything wrong if you do exercise that legal right and have a specialist lawyer with you.
Some people wrongly think that just because they have a lawyer with them it makes them look guilty. This is NOT true – the law says you have this right, it is there to ensure that you don’t do or say anything that can be misinterpreted by the police who are questioning you.
You must also bear in mind that the only reason why the police are wanting to formally question you on tape is because they think you may have done something wrong and they may already think you’re guilty of an offence, because by this time they have only been given one side of the story.
About the author
Nick Titchener, director and solicitor advocate of Lawtons, is a dedicated criminal solicitor with considerable experience in legal cases including sexual offences, violence and assault. Nick’s measured and methodical approach means he thrives on even the most complex case.
Nick also oversees the overall management of Lawtons Solicitors, a specialist firm of criminal law defence solicitors with branches across London, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Essex.
What is a Caution Plus 3 Interview?
Often referred to as a Voluntary Police Interview, a Caution Plus 3 Interview is a formal interview conducted by the police, normally at the police station, under what is called the Caution. It is called a Caution Plus 3 Interview as there are 3 main elements to it.
1. It is conducted under the Police Caution;
The Police Caution states: “You do not have to say anything. But, it may harm your defence if you don’t mention now, something which you later rely on in Court. And anything you do say may be given in evidence”.
2. You are entitled to free legal advice
This is your right and you have to be told this by the police – even if they won’t want you to have it or tell you that you don’t need it!
3. You are free to leave the police station at any stage as you are there voluntarily
Although if you do attempt to leave the police may then decide to arrest you.
What are the possible consequences of a Caution Plus 3 Interview?
The legal consequences of the Caution Plus 3 Interview are exactly the same as if you had been arrested. The police will often ask you to attend the Police station for this to take place rather than come and arrest you because it is quicker and easier for them.
However, it is very important that you have legal advice – specialist criminal defence lawyers can assist you in ensuring that your words aren’t twisted and your rights are protected. Having expert advice can make all the difference in whether your case goes to court and ensuring that you’re treated fairly.
If you have been asked to attend the Police station – do not delay, contact us today for specialist advice so we can make the arrangements to attend the interview with you. It can be free, it can and will make a difference.
Speak to Lawtons
Specialist police station solicitors and lawyers at Lawtons are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Assistance at the police station is free of charge. We have extensive experience in providing police station representation to defend charges that range from murder and gun crime to criminal damage and public disorder.
We have offices in London, Luton, Hatfield, Essex, Milton Keynes and Bedford and regularly represent people at Police stations within these areas and beyond.