Yasar Saleem, Solicitor
Yasar Saleem Solicitor · Crime & Caution+3
24hr 07780 707 824 yasar.s@mlc.law WhatsApp
Yasar Saleem, Solicitor

If you have been invited to a voluntary police interview (also known as a Caution Plus 3 interview), you are likely feeling anxious and uncertain about what to expect. This is a formal, recorded interview under caution, and what you say can have significant legal consequences. I am here to provide you with free, independent legal advice and support you every step of the way.

Facing a Voluntary Police Interview?
Know your rights before you walk in.

Yasar Saleem is a specialist criminal solicitor available 24/7 for voluntary police interviews (Caution Plus 3). Get expert, confidential advice immediately.

⭐ ★★★★★ Read my Google reviews →
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A Message From Yasar Saleem

Watch this short introduction to see how I can help you with your Voluntary Police Interview.

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About Yasar Saleem

I represent people at voluntary police interviews, also called Caution Plus 3 interviews.

This may be your first contact with the police. You may be scared. You may not know who to call for help.

I am here to help you.

I can be with you at your interview. I can provide you with legal advice and support, and I can help make the process easier by preparing you.

Your concerns are valid. I will listen to them, and I will not judge you.

The advice I offer is confidential. It is free, and I am completely independent. I do not work for the police.

I am a duty solicitor. If you have asked the police to arrange another duty solicitor for you, you can change your mind and use me. It is your choice.

To access free legal advice, you do not have to use the duty solicitor the police arrange. I can provide the exact same service for free. All duty solicitors provide free legal advice, and it is all funded by the same organisation – the Legal Aid Agency.

Why would you choose me?

I have over 20 years' experience representing people at the police station who are interviewed by the police.

The experience helps me to:

  1. advise clients on what they should do in the interview,
  2. make clients feel less stressed by bringing a calmness to the situation, and
  3. handle unexpected situations that can arise.

I will defend you. I will seek to get the best outcome for you, and I will give you honest advice.

Your matter is important to me. I will prioritise you, and you will never be 'just another client.'

Do I work alone?

Absolutely not.

I work as a consultant duty solicitor at Middlesex Law Chambers Limited. The office details are at the bottom of this page. There are a number of other duty solicitors that work at the company. The company specialises in criminal cases and has a number of ongoing court cases for clients.

Worried about a police interview?

I truly understand how worrying it is to be in your situation.

Many people I have represented in the past have told me how they felt.

I am compassionate, attentive, and will seek to make the process as easy as possible for you.

Will I get better advice by paying for a solicitor?

I can understand why someone may think that.

I represented an American national some years ago at a voluntary police interview, and I remember her being sceptical about free advice. She found me online. We talked on the phone initially, and she decided she wanted me to represent her. After her interview, the police dropped the case and no further action was taken against her. That was the best outcome she could have received.

She did not pay me. I represented her under the free legal aid scheme. She could have paid a solicitor privately, but she would not have received a better outcome.

The point I am making is that you may receive the same advice from me that you would from a solicitor you pay.

Duty Solicitor

I am a duty solicitor. That means I am on the police station and court rotas.

I am on call at certain police stations. If someone is arrested, they are usually offered the services of a duty solicitor when they are brought to the police station. If I am on call during that time, the case will be allocated to me.

Similarly with voluntary police interviews, the police will arrange a solicitor for someone at a voluntary interview. If I am on call at that time, the case will be allocated to me.

I have represented people at voluntary interviews where the police have requested a solicitor. I have also represented numerous people who have contacted me directly after finding me online. Many of these people had asked the police to arrange a solicitor for them but then decided they wanted me to represent them instead.

Why people tend to call me

Many people tell me they have read testimonials from previous clients. These are on my website. I believe many people are persuaded to use me after reading them. They are all 100% genuine. I am a solicitor and would not jeopardise my career by posting fake testimonials.

What next?

If you like what you have read, have watched my short introduction video, and would now like to speak to me further, then simply pick up the phone and call me. Alternatively, send me a message on WhatsApp and I will message you back. You can also email me if that is easier.

More about me

I graduated with a degree in Law from the University of Hertfordshire in 1998. I qualified as a solicitor in 2003. In 2004, I obtained the Police Station Qualification from the University of Cardiff. In 2005 I qualified as a duty solicitor.

I am an accredited member of the Law Society's Criminal Litigation Accreditation Scheme. I have been a member since 2005.

Over 20 years experience

What my clients say

"Big thanks to Yasar, he attended a voluntary interview with me at Romford police station, upon arriving the officers informed me I would be charged with the offence, however following the advice of Yasar after interview. I ended up with no further action, good result and very grateful. I would definitely recommend the services to anyone in need of a good police station solicitor 5/5"

— Romford Police Station

"Thank goodness my wife found Yasar when she googled 'informal police interview' after work allegations. I had several serious allegations made about me at work and was shocked and worried when told I had a police interview. I didn't know how serious it was or what to expect on the day. Yasar was very calm and professional and knew exactly how to handle the situation. Two days later I had a call from Yasar who stated NFA would be taken. It was one of the most stressful times of my life. I'm so happy I didn't rely on the duty solicitor and that I contacted Yasar. Many thanks."

— Medway Police Station

Police station
Law Society Accredited Criminal Litigation Solicitor

My Services – Free Representation

I provide free legal representation at voluntary police interviews (Caution Plus 3). I also provide free representation to people that have been arrested and are interviewed by the police.

This service is paid for by the Legal Aid Agency. You will not be required to make any payment for representation at a voluntary police interview.

Anyone interviewed by the police at a voluntary interview is entitled to free legal representation.

Funded by Legal Aid – No cost to you
Handshake representing trust and support

Understanding Voluntary Police Interviews

What is a voluntary police interview?

A voluntary police interview is a formal interview conducted under caution. The interview is recorded and can be used as evidence in criminal proceedings. The police suspect you have, or may have, committed an offence and they want to ask you questions about your involvement.

When the police investigate an allegation, they must pursue all reasonable lines of enquiry, including those that point away from you as a suspect. In many investigations, an interview is considered a reasonable line of enquiry.

If you refuse to attend a voluntary interview, you may be arrested. An arrest enables the police to carry out the interview.

The police will conduct a voluntary interview in cases where there is no necessity to carry out an arrest. For example, this may be where the police do not need to search your premises or seize property from you.

If the police wish to impose bail conditions on you, a voluntary interview will not be appropriate. In those cases, the police will arrest you.

Why should you have a solicitor at a voluntary interview?

I can provide you with legal advice on how to approach your interview. I can also obtain information about the allegation from the police officer before the interview takes place.

In many cases, the police withhold evidence until the interview in order to test whether you are telling the truth.

I can advise you whether to answer questions. While answering questions may seem like the best option, it is not always the case. I will consider the legal implications of answering questions versus remaining silent and advise you accordingly.

It is important to remember that an interview is not a casual conversation. What you say can be used as evidence weeks or months later in court if you are prosecuted. If you say something in your interview, then change your account later on in court, that can damage your defence.

Professional meeting room

The Interview Process – Step by Step

If you are asked to attend at a specific time (for example, 6pm), the interview will not begin immediately.

  1. Disclosure: I will first speak privately with the police officer to obtain "disclosure", which is information about the allegation. This usually takes only a few minutes.
  2. Private Consultation: I will then speak with you in private to explain the information disclosed and advise you on the relevant law and evidence. Every offence has specific legal requirements, and I will explain how these apply to your situation.
  3. Advice on Evidence: I will advise on the strengths and weaknesses of the evidence, although this may be a preliminary assessment if all the evidence is not yet known.
  4. No Time Limit: There is no time limit on how long we can talk for before the interview. A typical consultation with a client before the interview can last between 30 and 60 minutes.
  5. Risk Assessment: Before the interview, the officer will complete a risk assessment form, asking you about any medical conditions, medications, or mental health issues. These questions are not part of the interview itself.
  6. The Interview: Once we have finished discussing matters, the interview will begin. Your interview will be audio recorded and, in some cases, visually recorded. There may be one or two officers present. Usually, one officer will ask the questions while the other takes notes.

Your Legal Rights at the Start of the Interview

At the start of your interview, the officer will explain your legal rights, including that:

  • the interview is voluntary,
  • you are not under arrest,
  • you are free to leave at any time (although you may be arrested if you leave before questioning is complete),
  • you are entitled to free, independent legal advice.

The Caution

The officer will then administer the caution:

The Caution

"You do not have to say anything, but it may harm your defence if you do not mention, when questioned, something you later rely on in court. Anything you do say may be given in evidence."

Police station

Possible Outcomes & Out-of-Court Disposals

After the Interview

At the end of your interview, the recording is stopped and you may leave the station. You can speak with me afterwards for further advice.

The matter will be referred either to another officer or to the Crown Prosecution Service for a decision to be made about the outcome. If you are under 18, your matter may be referred to the Youth Offending Team.

You will be informed once a decision has been made.

Out-of-Court Disposals

Simple Caution

A simple caution is a formal warning for individuals aged 18 and over. It results in a criminal record and may be disclosed in certain circumstances. You must admit the offence, and there must be sufficient evidence to prosecute.

Conditional Caution

A conditional caution includes one or more conditions that you must comply with. Criminal proceedings are paused while you are given the opportunity to meet these conditions. If you comply, prosecution will not usually follow.

Community Resolution

Community Resolutions are generally used for less serious offences. A key advantage is that a Community Resolution does not appear on a basic or standard DBS check, although it may be disclosed on an enhanced check.

Professional office

How the CPS Decides Whether to Prosecute

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) follows the Code for Crown Prosecutors to make fair and independent decisions about whether to bring a case to court. This ensures that prosecutions are only started when the evidence is strong enough and it is in the public interest.

Evidential Stage

The prosecutor must be satisfied there is sufficient evidence to provide a "realistic prospect of conviction." This means an impartial jury or magistrates, properly directed, would be more likely than not to convict.

If the case does not pass this stage, it cannot proceed.

Public Interest Stage

If the evidence is sufficient, the prosecutor then considers if a prosecution is needed in the public interest. A prosecution will usually go ahead unless factors against it clearly outweigh those in favour.

The public interest is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Key Factors in the Public Interest Decision

Prosecutors consider the following questions to determine the public interest. The weight given to each factor depends on the specific facts of the case.

Seriousness of the offence

The more serious the offence, the more likely a prosecution is required.

Suspect's culpability

Greater involvement, planning, or previous offending makes prosecution more likely.

Circumstances of the victim

More vulnerable victims, or offences motivated by prejudice, increase the likelihood of prosecution.

Age and maturity of the suspect

Children and young people are treated differently, with rehabilitation favoured over prosecution where possible.

Impact on the community

Greater harm to a community, or high prevalence of an offence, makes prosecution more likely.

Proportionality

Prosecution must be a proportionate response, weighing the cost against the likely outcome.

The Threshold Test: Charging Before Full Evidence Is Available

In limited circumstances, a suspect can be charged before all evidence is gathered, but only if all five strict conditions are met:

  1. Reasonable grounds to suspect the person committed the offence.
  2. Further evidence can be obtained to provide a realistic prospect of conviction.
  3. The seriousness of the case justifies an immediate charging decision.
  4. There are substantial grounds to object to bail.
  5. It is in the public interest to charge the suspect.

Important: A decision to charge under the Threshold Test is kept under review. The Full Code Test must be applied as soon as the anticipated further evidence is received.

📜
Official CPS Guidance: Read the full Code for Crown Prosecutors directly from the CPS website.

What My Clients Say

Real testimonials from people I've represented

"From the moment I first spoke to Yasar about a harassment case requiring me to attend a voluntary interview, I felt reassured and confident. He immediately put my mind at ease and acted as a true advocate throughout. Yasar took the time to explain everything clearly, ensuring I fully understood the process and never felt isolated. His professionalism and honesty were constant and he consistently encouraged me not to settle for less than I deserved. Thanks to his support, the investigation was ultimately dropped and he guided me every step of the way. I am deeply grateful for his help. Thank you again, Yasar."

Grays Police Station

2025 – Harassment

"Thank goodness my wife found Yasar when she googled 'informal police interview' after work allegations. I had several serious allegations made about me at work and was shocked and worried when told I had a police interview. I didn't know how serious it was or what to expect on the day. Yasar was very calm and professional and knew exactly how to handle the situation. Two days later I had a call from Yasar who stated NFA would be taken. It was one of the most stressful times of my life. I'm so happy I didn't rely on the duty solicitor and that I contacted Yasar. Many thanks"

Medway Police Station

2025 – Common Assault

"..I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for all your support and guidance throughout the interview at Bishopsgate Police Station. Your professionalism, expertise, and dedication have been invaluable, and I genuinely appreciate the time and effort you out into ensuring the best possible outcome.."

Bishopsgate Police Station

2025 – Common Assault

"I contacted Yasar as my 12 year old child was called for a voluntary interview and he was explaining all the steps both to myself and my child in great detail. It was comforting to have him at the interview for us both. I can only praise Yasar for his professionalism and his way of communicating everything so that my child understood. Many thanks from us both!"

Staines Police Station

2024 – Common assault and ABH

"Finding myself in a difficult and stressful situation, I reached out to Yasar for legal support, and I am so glad I did. From the very first phone call, he was calm, reassuring, and incredibly professional. He took the time to understand my situation, explain the process in detail, and prepare me thoroughly for my police interview. His approach instantly eased my anxiety and gave me the confidence I needed to face what was ahead. During the interview, Yasar's support was invaluable. He stayed by my side the entire time, ensuring my rights were protected and guiding me through every step. When the police tried to ask tricky or misleading questions, Yasar intervened appropriately, making sure I could answer them confidently and without confusion. His professionalism and expertise turned an otherwise overwhelming experience into one that I could handle calmly. Yasar went above and beyond in every way possible, always making himself available for my questions and concerns, no matter the time. He was patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about achieving the best outcome for me. I cannot thank Yasar enough for his outstanding support and guidance. He is not only a skilled lawyer but also someone who truly puts his clients at ease during the toughest times. I highly recommend him to anyone who needs expert legal assistance. Thank you, Yasar, for everything."

Bethnal Green Police Station

2024 – ABH

"I have been accused for sexual assault few months back. Mr Yasar Saleem accepted straight away to be my free solicitor, he travelled from outside London to come to represent me and I cannot express in words my gratitude and happiness of being my solicitor. From beginning, he gave me all the instruction and he presented me all the key facts of the case, I was very stressed and afraid, but because of his expertise, he encouraged me and he guided me through all the interview. Thanks to his presence, dedication and knowledge, the case was closed. I highly recommend his services."

Bishopsgate Police Station

2024 – Sexual Assault

"I wanted to take a moment to share my experience with you as my Solictor. Your dedication, knowledge, and unwavering support have made a significant difference in my situation. From the initial consultation to the resolution of my case, you have exhibited professionalism and expertise that are truly commendable. Your guidance and assistance have been invaluable, and I cannot thank you enough for your outstanding service. I wholeheartedly recommend you to anyone seeking legal assistance. Your commitment to my case and exceptional skills make you a standout professional in your field. Without a doubt, you deserve a 5-star rating for their exemplary work. Thank you once again Yasar. I am grateful for all the help and support you have provided me with throughout this process."

Hatfield Police Station

2024 – ABH

"Big thanks to yasar , he attended a voluntary interview with me at Romford police station , upon arriving the officers informed me I would be charged with the offence , however following the advice of yasar after interview . I ended up with no further action, good result and very grateful. I would definitely recommend the services to anyone in need of a good police station solicitor 5/5"

Romford Police Station

2024 – Failing to stop for police

"The most horrible experience. Being maliciously accused of rape and violence by my ex wife on the grounds to disrupt the harmony of my childrens custody. Yaseer with his professionalism guided me through the caution interview. Presented me with the best guidance with utmost professionalism. Kept his composure and kept me calm throughout my worst case circumstances. Top solicitor will vouch for him all the way. Thank you from the bottom of my heart And** Prompt on time I showed me utmost dedication and support throughout."

Holborn Police Station

2024

"Yasar has been a fantastic help to me in something that I stupidly done. He was responsive immediately and met me at a Police Station. He went into the Station, reviewed the evidence and gave me the exact breakdown of what could happen best and worst case. We decided between us the best way forward and came to a resolution with the Police which resulted in a Community Resolution. Lessons have been learnt and I would highly recommend this guy. He knows his stuff inside out"

Heathrow Police Station

2023 – Theft

"I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for the exceptional support and outstanding results you provided during my recent caution +3 interview for theft. Your expertise, guidance, and dedication truly made a difference in the outcome of my case. From the very beginning, you exhibited a deep understanding of the legal process, ensuring that I was well-informed and prepared for each step. Your professionalism and approachability instantly put me at ease, making it easier for me to navigate a challenging situation. Your commitment to my case was evident in every interaction we had. You provided clear explanations, answered all my questions, and consistently kept me updated on any developments. Your meticulous attention to detail and strategic approach played a crucial role in the case being closed with no further action. I am genuinely impressed by your level of expertise and your ability to handle the complexities of my situation. Your hard work and dedication have earned my utmost respect and trust. I have no hesitation in recommending you to my family and friends should they ever require legal assistance. Once again, thank you for your exceptional service. You've not only achieved a favorable outcome for me but also made a lasting positive impact on my perception of legal proceedings."

Wandsworth Police Station

2023 – Theft

"Yasar Saleem is a credit to legal aid. Subsequent to a Police demand to attend a Caution+3 interview for an alleged but thoroughly malicious accusation of harassment, I was very fortunate to retain Yasar Saleem to represent my interests and provide me with both information and legal advice which he did impeccably prior to, and during, and post the interview, resulting in me disproving the accusation and no further action to be progressed"

Charing Cross Police Station

2023 – Harassment and malicious communications

"Fantastic solicitor, he knows what he is doing / talking about. He knew from the very beginning that the accusations made towards myself were completely unjustifiable from a legal perspective and helped me sort things out during my caution 3+ interview. I can't recommend him enough, the interview went smoothly and he helped me throughout the whole process. If you ever are in a situation where you are accused of something (either at the police station or being invited for a caution 3+ interview) don't hesitate to call him. He will suggest you the best course of action and his knowledge is indeed amazing :)"

Wandsworth Police Station

2023 – Racially aggravated disorderly behaviour and threats to cause criminal damage

"I would really recommend Yaser for anyone who is asked to attend a voluntary police interview. When I first contacted him, he was so kind and allowed me over 90 minutes on the phone! Something rare with other solicitors who would not give you their time, especially given you may not use them and it could all be for nothing! I was very anxious about the interview, Yaser reassured me always, never made me feel l was was being silly! I had a long wait for my interview and during that time, he always took my calls and called me back if he had missed the call. His advice was spot on and I was able to have a no further action outcome. A true professional and a gentleman. I would 110% definitely recommend Yaser!"

Colindale Police Station

2023 – Harassment and Controlling or Coercive behaviour

"Yasar has been a great help to me in a very stressful situation. As I am only 19 having being called into a police station was overwhelming and he reassured me with his extensive knowledge which made me feel more comfortable going in to the station. He was immediately responsive and was able to talk to me on the phone at anytime whenever I needed reassurance or had a question. He reviewed the minimal evidence the police had and when we spoke he stated his professional opinion that they have no case and I was falsely accused of assault. This reassurance again made me feel more comfortable and eased my stress. He provided me with advice throughout the interview such as interfering when the police officer would as inappropriate questions which I would respond with "no comment." The case was given to CPS and 6 months later they closed the case so it was quite a wait but I wasn't stressed out because Yasar's opinion on the matter made me confident that the case wouldn't continue to court. If I was on my own it would have been an extremely stressful 6 months flinching whenever my phone rang. 100% recommend!"

Charing Cross Police Station

2023 – Common Assault

"After being invited to the local Police station for a +3 interview for an alleged road rage incident reported by a cyclist, I searched the internet for information and legal advice. Yasar was clear about his services and explained the procedures. He was quick and concise to respond to correspondence. On the day of the interview, he asked the officer the right questions and explained my position to me, the laws that applied and how my actions would be interpreted. His presence was reassuring and his knowledge accurate and objective. I gave my interview and the full sequence of events and was not charged. I would highly recommend Yasar's services which were provided through legal aid"

Stoke Newington Police Station

2022 – Intentional harassment, alarm or distress

"..His presence was fundamental to supporting me and his knowledge helped me to articulate the facts in the right way. He also helped me to understand the accusations, and the laws and his presence gave me the confidence to correctly tell my version of the facts and present my evidence.."

Lewisham Police Station

2022 – Assault

"My relative, who is a vulnerable adult, was called for a voluntary interview at a police station. Yasar provided prompt support, was approachable and listened patiently. He provided clear and calm explanations and advice. He steered us through a difficult experience and achieved a positive outcome."

Fresh Wharf Custody Base, Barking

2022 – Common Assault and racially aggravated intentional harassment, alarm or distress (Testimonial by family member)

"Yasar represented me at short notice in a recent case where I was wrongly accussed. I found him highly skilled, patient, calm and very understanding. I was quite stressed after the police interview and Yasar took time to talk with me reassuringly and listened patiently to my predicament. He could quite easily have sped off to his next client but no, this man is compassionate. I seriously don't think a solicitor comes any better than Yasar and I'd recommend him 100% every time. The police stated NFA in my case. Thanks Yasar"

Wood Green Police Station

2022 – Exposure

"Yasar was very professional, helpful and supportive on my case. He gave me the best possible advice by communicating thoroughly. He really put me at ease in a situation that i never faced before. When you need a solicitor, Yasar will always be my recommendation. Thanks Yasar again for all your help!"

Enfield Police Station

2022 – Assault

"I was accused by an ex associate of mine and to make thing's worse her neighbor has also made separate allegations in a clear attempt of collusion against me , but with the guidance and recommendation of Mr Yasar saw right through it and I was able to get NFA couple of months after both interviews were concluded, He was present , on call when ever I reached out and has got me out of a jam that could of ruined my whole life I recommend him prior to any police interview for any criminal matter."

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Your Rights in a Voluntary Police Interview

📜
Official Government Guidance: Read the full "Remember Your Rights: Voluntary Interview" directly from the UK Government website.

This guide is designed to help you understand your rights if you have been invited to a voluntary police interview (also known as a 'voluntary attendance interview'). Please read this alongside the official notice you have been given. If you are unsure about anything, ask the police interviewer to explain.

General Rights and The Process

Am I under arrest?

No. You are not under arrest and you are free to leave at any time. The police want to speak to you about an offence, but they are not detaining you.

Do I have to agree to be interviewed?

Yes. A voluntary interview requires your consent. You do not have to consent to being interviewed. The police cannot force you to take part unless they arrest you.

What if I want to leave during the interview?

You are free to leave at any time. If you want to leave, tell the police interviewer. The interview must stop, and the police officer must leave unless they decide to arrest you.

What must the police tell me before the interview starts?

Before you are asked for your consent to be interviewed, the police interviewer must tell you about your rights, entitlements, and safeguards. This includes the right to free legal advice, the right to remain silent, and the right to know about the offence you are suspected of.

Your Right to Free Legal Advice (Solicitor)

Do I have a right to a solicitor?

Yes. You have a right to free and independent legal advice from a solicitor. It is completely free, regardless of your financial situation. Asking for a solicitor does not make you look guilty.

How do I get a solicitor?

Tell the police interviewer that you want legal advice. They must arrange this for you. You can ask for a solicitor you know (if they do legal aid work, it's free) or you can speak to the free Duty Solicitor who is independent of the police.

Can I speak to my solicitor before the interview?

Yes. If you ask for legal advice, the police interviewer is usually not allowed to ask you any questions until you have had the chance to speak with a solicitor. You can also ask for a solicitor to be with you during the interview.

What if I say I don't want a solicitor but then change my mind?

Tell the police interviewer immediately. They will then help you contact a solicitor, and the interview will be paused until you have received your advice.

I asked for a solicitor but they haven't turned up or contacted me. What should I do?

Tell the police interviewer. They must contact the solicitor again or arrange for the Duty Solicitor to speak to you. You can always ask to speak to a solicitor again if you need to.

The Caution and Your Right to Silence

Why do the police read me a caution?

The caution is a formal warning. The police must read it to you before they ask you any questions about the suspected offence. It explains your right to remain silent and the potential consequences of that choice.

What does the caution mean?

It means: You do not have to say anything. However, it may harm your defence if you do not mention, when questioned, something which you later rely on in court. Anything you do say may be given in evidence.

So, should I say nothing?

This is a crucial decision that you should only make after consulting with your solicitor. The police are warning you that if you stay silent now but later provide an explanation in court, the judge or jury may be entitled to draw a negative inference from your silence.

The Offence and The Interview

Will the police tell me what I am suspected of?

Yes. The police interviewer must tell you the nature of the offence they think you have committed, including where and when they think it happened. They also must explain why they think you committed it and why they need to interview you.

Will I get all the evidence the police have against me?

Before the interview starts, the police must give you and your solicitor enough information about what they think you have done so that you can defend yourself. However, they might not give you everything if it would harm the police investigation at this early stage. You will get full access to the evidence if your case goes to court.

Special Support and Vulnerable People

What if I don't speak English well or have a hearing impairment?

The police interviewer must provide you with a free interpreter. If you are deaf or have difficulty speaking, they will arrange for a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter. The interpreter will help you understand everything and can translate documents for you.

I am under 18. Do I have special rights?

Yes. If you are under 18 or are vulnerable (for example, if you have learning difficulties or mental health problems), you have the right to have an "appropriate adult" with you. This adult (who could be a parent, guardian, or social worker) is there to help you understand what is happening and look after your interests. They must be present when your rights are explained and when you are asked to consent to the interview.

I am not British. Can I contact my embassy?

Yes. If you are not British, you can tell the police interviewer that you want to contact your High Commission, Embassy, or Consulate to ask for their help. They can also arrange for a solicitor to see you.

Practicalities and The Interview Record

Will the interview be recorded?

Yes. Everything that happens during your interview is recorded. This could be an audio recording, a visual recording with sound, or a written record. You will be given a notice telling you how to get a copy of the recording.

What are my rights regarding breaks and the interview environment?

The room where you are interviewed should be clean, warm, and lit. You should not be made to stand up. You are entitled to breaks at normal meal times and a short break for a drink after about two hours.

What if I want to complain about how I have been treated?

You have the right to complain. You can ask to speak to a police inspector or a higher rank at any police station. You can also contact the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) or make a complaint through a solicitor or your MP.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be charged at a voluntary police interview?

You will not be charged immediately. A decision will be made after the interview as to whether charges should be brought.

Do I have to attend a voluntary police interview?

No, but you may be arrested if you refuse. If arrested, the police can detain you for up to 24 hours (and sometimes longer in certain circumstances) and conduct the interview during that time.

What happens after the interview?

A decision will be made to: charge you with an offence, issue an out-of-court disposal, or take no further action.

Does a voluntary police interview mean there is not enough evidence?

No. In many cases, the police may already have sufficient evidence to charge. A voluntary interview is used where the legal criteria for arrest are not met.

How can I avoid being charged?

Even if there is strong evidence against you, a charge is not inevitable. In some cases, the police can offer an out-of-court disposal or take no action at all if it is not in the public interest.

Ready to speak with Yasar?

Call now or send a WhatsApp message – I'm here to help.

Call 07780 707 824 WhatsApp

© 2026 Yasar Saleem · Solicitor · 07780 707 824 (24hr) · yasar.s@mlc.law

Self-employed consultant · Criminal law · Voluntary police interviews

Contact

Yasar Saleem
Consultant Solicitor
Middlesex Law Chambers

📍 54a Cowley Road, Uxbridge UB8 2FX

📧 yasar.s@mlc.law

📞 07780 707 824

Law Society Roll Number: 290016

Police Stations Covered

  • West London & Home Counties
  • Uxbridge Police Station
  • Hayes Police Station
  • Southall Police Station
  • Ealing Police Station
  • Harrow Police Station
  • Wembley Police Station
  • Heathrow Polar Park
  • High Wycombe Police Station
  • Slough Police Station
  • Reading Police Station
  • Central & South London
  • Charing Cross Police Station
  • Freshwharf Police Station
  • Ilford Police Station
  • Wandsworth Police Station
  • Kingston Police Station
  • Hammersmith Police Station
  • Brixton Police Station
  • Lewisham Police Station
  • Surrey, Herts, Essex & Kent
  • Stations across Surrey
  • Stations across Berkshire
  • Stations across Hertfordshire
  • Harlow Police Station
  • Loughton Police Station
  • Grays Police Station
  • Medway Police Station

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📍 Office location • Police stations across London covered

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Law Society Roll No. 290016