1. All advice and representation for police station matters is confidential and free.
You may be worried about the cost of representation but this is free for police station matters. If you are charged and your matter goes to court, the firm representing you will assess whether you are eligible for legal aid.
Your legal representative represents you and will not discuss your instructions with the police or anyone else, apart from the firm that is instructed to represent you.
2. Understanding the process and legal knowledge
Having someone who understands the process and has knowledge of the law will ensure that your needs are looked after and that you understand your legal position. Being detained in a police cell can be a daunting, stressful and often a frightening experience. The police can detain you for anything up to 24 hours and often longer in some cases. The police will conduct interviews and have strategies but by having a legal representative you can feel reassured that your welfare is looked after and that the police conduct their interviews fairly.
3. What happens at the police station may affect how your case unravels at court or lead to other charges being brought
Whatever you say or do not say during the interview may affect your case if it goes to trial. A Police Station Representative will have obtained disclosure from the police and will take full instructions from you. You will then be advised on your position and how to deal with your interview. Your police interview is your first opportunity to provide your account or defence. A legal representative will advise you on the best way to deal with your interview and protect you from any potential self incrimination.
4. To understand your needs
A lot of the time individuals are under an illusion that by saying 'no comment' in an interview will enable them to leave police custody faster. This is untrue. A legal representative is there to listen and protect your interests.