Been Asked to Attend a Voluntary Police Interview? – Here’s What You Need to Know

Introduction to Voluntary Interviews

The Police could ask you to come and talk to them, using phrases like “it’s just a chat”, “it’s nothing to worry about” or “we just want to ask you a few questions” – this means you are being asked to attend a voluntary interview. If you have been asked to attend the police station for any reason, it is essential to understand your rights and seek legal advice because what happens in that room could change your life.

At Bell Lamb & Joynson, we’ve recently seen a notable increase in the number of people being asked to attend these voluntary interviews and we urge you to never attend without a solicitor present.

What is a Voluntary Interview?

A voluntary interview is when a person attends a police station willingly, without being arrested, to speak with officers about a criminal offence. It is often presented as informal and a ‘casual chat’, but don’t get confused, these are still formal, recorded interviews that can be used as evidence in court.

Many police forces now favour voluntary interviews over formal arrests. Unfortunately, this has resulted in many people walking into the interviews alone, unaware of the legal protections available to them, such as free legal representation.

Why Legal Representation Matters

We often support clients who are attending a voluntary interview for the first time, many of whom are young, vulnerable, or simply unaware of what to expect. Too often, people assume that because they’ve done nothing wrong, they don’t need legal advice. This is a dangerous misconception.

Everything you say during a voluntary interview is recorded. It can be used against you in court. Without legal support, you may unintentionally say something that harms your case, or miss a key opportunity to protect your rights.

Benefits of Voluntary Interviews

There are real benefits to all parties when people are asked to attend a voluntary police interview. One of the main benefits being that people are unlikely to be put inside of a custody suite or cell, and the process is fairly quick and straightforward. However, that does not prevent you from having the same rights as someone who has been arrested.

Tips for Attending Police Interviews

• You are entitled to FREE and independent legal advice during any police interview – voluntary or otherwise.
• Having a solicitor present does not make you look guilty – it ensures your rights are protected and the interview is conducted fairly.
• Bell Lamb & Joynson Solicitors are available 24/7, 365 days a year to attend police station interviews with you.

You will likely feel more relaxed and able to answer questions clearly if you attend a ‘voluntary’ appointment, rather than the police coming to your house to arrest you. So, If you get asked to attend a police interview – contact a solicitor and go to the station. This will make you better equipped to deal with questions from police, which will give you a better chance at avoiding court proceedings.

Tips to Remember When Asked to Attend Police Interviews

If the police ask you to present yourself at a police station for an interview or to talk with a police officer, then please contact us immediately so that we can attend with you.

Here are some tips that you should remember:

• Tell the police officer your intent to take legal advice (there will not be a problem with this at all).
• Contact a solicitor and arrange to attend the interview with you. There are an array of highly experienced police stations representatives and solicitors who are available 24/7 to assist you.
• Keep in touch with your solicitor until the police decide on what to do. The police can often take several weeks to decide on whether you are to face prosecution and by keeping in touch, we can walk you through the entire process and ensure that you are prepared and that we have all the facts to present your case.
• We are available 24/7 365 days a year – simply call our freephone 0808 196 1790.

Don’t Face It Alone

Being asked to attend a voluntary police interview can be intimidating - but you don’t have to go through it on your own. Our experienced team at Bell Lamb & Joynson has helped thousands of people in your position. Whether it’s a misunderstanding, a serious allegation, or a complex case involving mental health, we are here to support you with expert, compassionate legal advice.

📞 Call us anytime on 03444 124 348 or for out of hours, emergency criminal issues call 0808 196 1790 — we’re here for you, day or night.