YOUR ENTITLEMENT TO REPRESENTATION
What are voluntary interviews?
A voluntary interview, sometimes referred to as a ‘caution plus 3’ interview, is where you attend the police station by agreement rather than under arrest.
You are free to leave at any time, but the interview is still conducted under caution, meaning anything you say may later be used in evidence.
Although the word ‘voluntary’ may make this type of interview sound less serious, it is vital to understand that it carries the same weight as being interviewed under arrest – and legal representation is recommended.
At Morton’s Solicitors, we have extensive experience in advising and representing clients across Stockport and Greater Manchester during voluntary interviews.
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When might this apply?
The most typical scenarios we are called out for legal representation for a voluntary interview would include;
– The police want to question you about an allegation but do not feel an arrest is necessary
– Early stages of an investigation where your co-operation is sought
– Less urgent matters where the police arrange a time for you to attend
Regardless of the situation, the invitation to a voluntary interview still requires legal representation to ensure that both fair and due process is taken – and that you don’t say anything which may later harm your defence.
WHY IS LEGAL ADVICE IMPORTANT?
If you are invited to attend a voluntary interview it is important to have legal representation because;
– The police may already have evidence against you, but you may not be fully aware of it.
– Without legal representation, you risk saying something that could be misinterpreted or harm your case.
– A solicitor can request disclosure of the evidence and advise you on whether to answer questions, provide a prepared statement, or remain silent.
At Morton’s Solicitors, we provide clear, practical advice and robust representation for voluntary interviews in Stockport, across Greater Manchester and the north west.
Do not attend a voluntary interview without legal advice – contact our team as soon as you are invited.
“I found myself in need of a solicitor for the first time in my life, I found Morton Solicitors via an internet search and decided to give them a call. From the very start I found their friendly and professional approach immediately put me at ease. They handled the case with absolute professionalism and calmness, leading to a positive outcome for me and I cannot thank Simon enough. I would have no reservations in highly recommending Morton Solicitors to friends and family.”
PHILIP M.
VOLUNTARY INTERVIEW FAQ’s
Is a voluntary interview less serious than being arrested?
No. It might seem a “friendlier approach”, but although you attend voluntarily, the interview carries the same legal weight as one conducted under arrest.
The police will caution you in the same way, and your answers can be used as evidence in court.
Should I have a solicitor with me?
Yes. You should always have a solicitor present.
A solicitor can speak to the officer beforehand to find out what the interview is about, obtain any available disclosure, and advise you on how best to respond.
Having legal representation ensures that your rights are protected and helps prevent you from saying something that could be misinterpreted or used against you later.
Is legal advice free for voluntary interviews?
Yes. Even though you attend voluntarily, you are still entitled to free legal representation at the police station under Legal Aid.
You can specifically request Morton’s Solicitors to represent you, and one of our experienced criminal defence lawyers will attend with you anywhere in Greater Manchester or the North West.
What happens during a voluntary interview?
The police will explain the reason for the interview and formally caution you. They will then ask questions about the alleged offence, which will be audio-recorded.
You can stop the interview at any time to speak privately with your solicitor.
Depending on the case, your solicitor may advise you to answer questions, provide a prepared statement, or exercise your right to silence.
What happens after a voluntary interview?
After the interview, the police may:
- Take no further action if they are satisfied with your explanation.
- Refer the case for further investigation.
- Send the file to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) for a charging decision.
Our team can continue to assist you after the interview, liaising with the police and making representations to avoid a charge where possible.
Why choose Morton’s Solicitors?
Based in Stockport and serving Manchester and the North West, we have decades of experience representing clients at voluntary police interviews.
We provide calm, professional guidance from the first point of contact and work proactively to protect your rights and your future.
Early legal advice can often prevent a case from progressing to charge.
Contact Morton’s Solicitors today if you have been invited to attend a voluntary police interview. Our experienced team is available 24 hours a day to provide immediate advice and representation.
Twice Winners of
Crime Team of the Year
Why You Are In Safe Hands with Morton's Solicitors - Stockport, Manchester & Cheshire.
We have twice won the award for "Crime - Team of the Year" at the highly prestigious Manchester Legal Awards in 2018 & 2020. Not only is this based on our ability to get fantastic results for our clients, but we also offer an extremely friendly, discreet and client-focused service which has earnt us the plaudits.
What this means for any prospective client is that your case is going to be dealt with by one of the leading Criminal Defence Teams in Stockport, Manchester & across the North West.
Contact Us
20-22 Middle Hillgate, Stockport, Greater Manchester, SK1 3AY
Tel: 0161 477 1121
Fax: 0161 477 0708
Email: [email protected]
