FAQ

1. What are my rights at the police station?

When you are arrested and taken to a police station, you have crucial legal rights that the police must inform you of immediately. These are enshrined in the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE).

Your three most important rights are:

  1. The Right to Free Legal Advice: You have the right to speak with a solicitor privately and free of charge, regardless of your income. You can choose your own solicitor (e.g., your firm) or ask for the duty solicitor. Do not waive this right.

  2. The Right to Have Someone Informed of Your Arrest: You have the right to have one person (a friend, relative, or other person) told where you are and why you have been arrested. This is often referred to as the right to inform an "interested party."

  3. The Right to See the Codes of Practice (PACE): You have the right to see a copy of the Codes of Practice, which govern how the police must treat you while in detention.

Crucially, you have the right to remain silent and do not have to answer any questions, but your solicitor will advise you on the best course of action before any interview begins.

Your right to free and independent legal advice includes advice over the telephone as well as in person. If in doubt ensure that you ask for advice from one of our experienced solicitors at Winchester Law on 020 8200 2421.

Our advice and assistance at the police station is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is free of charge.

2. My case is in court and I do not have a Solicitor. What shall I do?

If your case is already in court and you do not have legal representation, you must take immediate action. Appearing in court without a solicitor is highly risky and can severely prejudice your case.

  1. Do Not Delay: Contact a solicitor immediately. Your options and potential defences narrow significantly the closer you get to your court date.

  2. Gather Paperwork: Collect all court letters, summonses, charge sheets, and documentation relating to your case. Your solicitor will need these immediately.

  3. Call Us Now: Contact Winchester Law immediately. We understand the urgency of court proceedings and can advise you on the next steps, including applying for adjournments, reviewing evidence, and assessing your eligibility for Legal Aid. If not eligible for legal aid we can represent you on a private fee.

**📞 Call Winchester Law Now on 020 8200 2421

 "Always Serving You"

3. Guilty or Not Guilty? What should I do?

This choice dictates your entire defence strategy, the evidence gathered, and the potential outcome, including your sentence.

  1. Do Not Enter a Plea Yet: Before entering any plea, you must have your solicitor review all the evidence the prosecution has against you (the "case papers").

  2. Understand the Consequences: A solicitor will advise you on the full implications of pleading guilty (e.g., getting credit for an early plea) versus pleading not guilty (e.g., the risk of a higher sentence if found guilty after a trial).

  3. This Is Our Job: Your solicitor is there to advise you on the plea that best protects your interests, not to tell you what to do. The decision remains yours, but it must be an informed decision.

📞 Contact Us Immediately

Your Winchester Law will advise on the best plea only after a full review of the evidence. Call us now to start that process.

"Always Serving You"

4. Can I get Legal Aid for Prison Law matters?

Yes, Legal Aid is often available for the most critical Prison Law matters, such as Parole Board Hearings, Independent Adjudications (disciplinary hearings), and challenges to certain decisions (Judicial Review). Eligibility is usually subject to a strict financial means test and the merits of your case. We can assess your eligibility immediately. 

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