Voluntary interviews and interviews under caution
Legal Aid for Police Interviews
If the police have asked to interview you, get advice early. We connect you with solicitors who can explain your rights, the process, and how Legal Aid may apply.
This page provides general information only. A solicitor will assess eligibility and advise you based on the facts.
If your interview is soon
If you have an interview booked (especially within days), speak to a solicitor as soon as possible. What you say can shape the next steps in the investigation.
Types of police interview
Police interviews can happen in different ways. The label matters less than the reality: you are being questioned about a suspected offence, and your answers can affect what happens next.
Voluntary interview
You attend by appointment. It can still be under caution. Do not assume it is informal or low risk. Speak to a solicitor first.
Interview under caution
The police caution is read and the interview is recorded. What you say can be used as evidence. Get advice before attending.
How a solicitor can help
A solicitor can protect your position and help you avoid mistakes. They can also explain how funding works and whether Legal Aid may be available.
- Explain what the allegation means in practice
- Ask for disclosure (what the police say the evidence is)
- Advise you on how to approach questions
- Attend the interview where appropriate
- Help you understand bail conditions or RUI
- Explain funding routes including Legal Aid
Your solicitor will advise based on the facts and evidence in your case.
How Legal Aid may apply
Legal Aid eligibility depends on your circumstances and the stage of the case. In criminal matters, a solicitor can explain what funding is available and what information is needed for assessment.
What you may be asked for
You may need basic details about your situation and, in some cases, information about income and capital. If you do not have documents immediately, tell your solicitor and provide what you can.
If Legal Aid is not available
A solicitor can explain alternatives such as fixed fees, staged pricing, or limited-scope advice so you can decide what to do next.
What to prepare before you speak to a solicitor
You do not need to over-explain. A short timeline and the key details are enough.
- Interview details: date, time, station, officer name/number
- Paperwork: letters, notices, bail paperwork (if any)
- Key dates: when events happened, any deadlines
- Summary: a short, factual outline of what has happened so far
Next steps
- 1) Do not attend without legal advice.
- 2) Share the basics and the interview details.
- 3) We connect you with a solicitor to discuss eligibility and the best approach.
FAQs
Should I attend a voluntary police interview without a solicitor?
It is usually best to get legal advice first. A solicitor can explain your rights, what the interview means, and what steps to take next.
What does “interview under caution” mean?
It means the police are interviewing you about a suspected offence and the caution is read. What you say can be used as evidence. Get legal advice before attending.
Can I get Legal Aid for a police interview?
Legal Aid may be available depending on the situation and the stage of the case. A solicitor will assess eligibility and explain funding options.
What should I bring to a police interview?
Bring any paperwork, the officer’s details, interview time and location, and any bail paperwork if relevant. If you have messages or documents that matter, tell your solicitor first.
What happens after the interview?
Possible outcomes include no further action, release under investigation, police bail with conditions, or a charging decision. Your solicitor can explain likely next steps based on the case.
Need advice before your interview?
Tell us the basics and your interview details. We will connect you with a solicitor to discuss eligibility and next steps.
Eligibility depends on your circumstances and solicitor assessment. This does not guarantee Legal Aid.