Mastering Police Interview Techniques: Advanced Guide

Understanding the PEACE Interview Model

What is PEACE?

All police interviews in England and Wales must follow the PEACE model[1]:

P - Planning and Preparation
E - Engage and Explain
A - Account, Clarification, Challenge
C - Closure
E - Evaluation

Why This Matters for You

Understanding PEACE helps you:

• Anticipate police questions
• Identify when officers deviate from proper procedure
• Spot improper questioning techniques
• Advise clients on what to expect
• Challenge breaches of interview protocol

Phase 1: Planning & Preparation (Before Interview)

What Police Should Do

Proper preparation includes:

• Reviewing all available evidence
• Identifying investigation objectives
• Planning question route
• Considering suspect vulnerabilities
• Arranging appropriate adult if needed
• Ensuring recording equipment works

Red flags (poor preparation):

• Officers haven't read custody record
• Don't know basic case facts
• Equipment failures during interview
• Sudden disclosure of "new" evidence mid-interview

Your Counter-Preparation

Before entering interview room:

1. Review your notes from consultation
2. Anticipate questions - what will they ask?
3. Identify risky topics - where could client incriminate themselves?
4. Prep intervention points - when will you need to speak?
5. Agree signals with client - hand raise = need break
6. Set expectations - "This may take 1-2 hours, stay calm"

Mental preparation:

• You're not there to be liked by police
• Your job is protecting client's interests
• Silence is not failure
• Quality of advice > speed of interview

Phase 2: Engage & Explain (Interview Start)

Standard Opening

Officers will:

1. Introduce everyone present
2. Explain recording process
3. Read caution (s.10 PACE)[2]
4. Confirm suspect understands rights
5. Ask about legal advice received
6. Confirm fitness for interview

Your first intervention:

When officers ask "Have you received legal advice?", you may say:

"Yes, I've had adequate time to consult with my client in private and provide full legal advice on this matter."

Why this matters: Prevents later police claim that interview should proceed despite inadequate advice time.

Understanding the Caution

Full caution:[2]

"You do not have to say anything. But 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."

Breaking this down for clients:

Part 1: "You do not have to say anything" → Fundamental right to silence

Part 2: "But it may harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned something which you later rely on in court"
→ Adverse inference warning[3] → If you stay silent now but later (at trial) claim "I was at my mum's house that night", judge/jury can hold your earlier silence against you → They can infer you made up the alibi later

Part 3: "Anything you do say may be given in evidence"
→ Your words will be used - carefully consider before speaking

Special cautions (when applicable):

• Caution after charge (when already charged): simpler caution without adverse inference warning[2]
• Youth caution: must be given in presence of appropriate adult[4]
• Vulnerable suspects: officers must ensure suspect understands caution before proceeding

Phase 3: Account, Clarification, Challenge (Main Interview)

The Three-Stage Questioning Approach

Stage A: Account (Free Narrative)

What happens:

Officers ask: "Tell me in your own words what happened."

Purpose:

• Get suspect's version without leading
• Identify gaps and inconsistencies
• Set baseline for later challenge

If client giving account:

• Let them speak without interrupting (unless going off-topic dangerously)
• Note any inconsistencies with what they told you
• Watch for officers cutting them off unfairly

If client going no comment:

• They simply say "No comment" to this question
• Officers may show frustration - ignore it

Stage B: Clarification

What happens:

Officers ask follow-up questions to clarify account:

• "What time did you say you left the pub?"
• "Who else was there?"
• "What were you wearing?"

Purpose:

• Fill in timeline gaps
• Get detail that can be checked
• Probe vague answers

Watch for:

• Repetitive questions - asking same thing multiple ways to trip client up
• Complex/confusing questions - multiple questions in one
• Leading questions - suggesting answers

When to intervene:

"Officer, that's the third time you've asked about timing. My client has answered clearly."

OR

"That question contains multiple parts. Could you ask one question at a time?"

Stage C: Challenge

What happens:

Officers confront suspect with evidence contradicting their account:

• "We have CCTV showing you at the shop at 3pm, but you said you were at home"
• "Your DNA was found on the knife"
• "Three witnesses identify you as the attacker"

Purpose:

• Test account against evidence
• Pressure suspect to change story or admit
• Create admissions on record

Common challenge tactics:

Tactic 1: The Evidence Bluff

"We have CCTV showing you did it" (when they may not)

Response: Police CAN lie about evidence during interview[5]

Advise client: Don't assume everything police say is true, stick to your account

Tactic 2: Minimization

"Everyone makes mistakes, just tell us what happened and we can sort this out"

Purpose: Lower suspect's guard, encourage admission

Response: Remind client via note: "This doesn't make it go away, you're still being prosecuted"

Tactic 3: Maximization

"This is really serious, you could get 10 years unless you explain yourself"

Purpose: Scare suspect into talking

Response: May be oppressive if over-used - intervene if excessive

Tactic 4: Good Cop/Bad Cop

One officer aggressive, another sympathetic

Purpose: Classic manipulation to encourage talking to "nice" officer

Response: Warn client beforehand this might happen; don't fall for it

Tactic 5: Lengthy Silence

Officer asks question then waits in silence for 30+ seconds

Purpose: Uncomfortable silence pressures suspect to fill it

Response: Coach client that silence is okay, don't feel pressured to speak

When to Intervene During Challenge Phase

MUST intervene:

• Oppressive questioning (shouting, excessive repetition)
• Improper questions ("Why would witnesses lie?" - asks client to speculate)
• Breaches of Code C[2]
• Client clearly distressed
• False assertions about legal position ("You have to answer")

SHOULD intervene:

• Confusing multi-part questions
• Hypothetical questions irrelevant to investigation
• Excessive challenge on minor points
• Interview running excessively long without break (recommend 15-min break every 2 hours)

DON'T intervene:

• Every question you don't like
• Proper challenge of client's inconsistencies (that's allowed)
• Reasonable questions exploring account
• Brief awkward silences

How to intervene professionally:

"Excuse me, officers. That question is [oppressive/confusing/improper]. I'd like a break to consult with my client."

NOT:

"Stop harassing my client!" (antagonistic, unhelpful)

Advanced Tactical Considerations

The "No Comment" Decision

When to strongly advise no comment:

1. Insufficient disclosure

   • You can't properly advise without knowing evidence
   • Police being deliberately vague
   • Major evidence gaps

2. Complex case

   • Fraud, serious violence, sexual offences
   • Multiple suspects/victims
   • Documentary evidence client hasn't seen

3. Client's account problematic

   • Inconsistencies you can't resolve
   • Client can't remember clearly (intoxication, trauma, time lapse)
   • Account would likely incriminate them

4. Evidence very strong

   • Client caught red-handed
   • Clear CCTV, forensics, multiple witnesses
   • Nothing client says will help

5. Client vulnerable

   • Mental health issues
   • Exhausted/unwell
   • Under 18 and very anxious
   • Language barrier even with interpreter

When "comment" may be better:

1. Strong defence exists

   • Clear alibi that can be verified
   • Self-defence/lawful excuse
   • Innocent explanation for presence/evidence

2. Weak evidence

   • Single unreliable witness
   • No forensics
   • Identification issue
   • Explaining your side likely to end it

3. Adverse inference risk high

   • Defence relies on facts only client knows
   • Failure to mention would seriously undermine trial defence[3]
   • Simple case where silence looks suspicious

4. Client credible and capable

   • Articulate
   • Understands questions
   • Calm under pressure
   • Account consistent

The Prepared Statement Strategy

What it is:

You draft written statement containing client's core account. Read at start of interview. Client then goes no comment to all questions.

Advantages:

• Puts defence on record (avoids adverse inference)[3]
• Avoids difficult questioning
• Controls what's disclosed
• Gives you time to craft precise wording
• Client doesn't have to speak (reduces anxiety)

Disadvantages:

• Takes time to prepare (may delay interview)
• Police may challenge statement
• Client can't elaborate or respond to new evidence
• May look "lawyered up" (though courts accept this)

When to use:

• Client has defence but struggles in interviews
• Evidence against strong but client has explanation
• Need to raise core facts but avoid detailed questioning
• Alibi or other defence requiring early disclosure
• Client vulnerable but needs to put account forward

How to draft:

"My name is [Client Name]. I understand I have been arrested for [offence] alleged to have occurred on [date] at [location].

I wish to state the following for the record:

[2-4 paragraphs covering: where you were, what you were doing, your explanation for any evidence, any witnesses who can support you, why you couldn't have committed the offence]

I do not wish to answer questions beyond this statement at this time, as I am tired/upset/need time to instruct solicitors fully."

Example:

"My name is John Smith. I've been arrested for assault on 15th January 2025 outside The Red Lion pub in Chelmsford.

I was not involved in any assault. I was at the pub but left at approximately 10:30pm to go home. I walked to the taxi rank on the High Street and got a taxi home, arriving at 11pm. My girlfriend can confirm I arrived home at this time.

I don't know who was involved in the assault, but it wasn't me. I may have been in the area, but I didn't see any fight and I didn't assault anyone.

I am willing to cooperate with the investigation but I'm very tired and haven't eaten since lunchtime yesterday. I've given this statement but don't wish to answer further questions at this time."

Selective Answering: High Risk Strategy

What it is:

Client answers some questions but not others.

Example:

• Answers questions about where they were: "I was at home"
• No comment to questions about what they were doing: "No comment"

Why it's risky:

• Looks evasive
• Court may infer guilty conscience
• Hard to maintain consistently
• Police will exploit: "You answered questions about X but not Y - why?"

When it might work:

• Client has innocent explanation for presence but doesn't want to discuss activities (e.g., was meeting a drug dealer but didn't commit the crime being investigated)
• Can answer general questions but not specifics without more disclosure
• Needs to establish core facts (alibi) but can't answer detailed forensic questions yet

Generally: Avoid unless very clear tactical reason. Usually better to pick full comment or full no comment.

Managing Specific Interview Scenarios

Scenario 1: Evidence Emerging During Interview

Situation: Police reveal CCTV/witness/forensic evidence you didn't know about during interview.

Your response:

"Excuse me, officers. This is new information that wasn't disclosed before interview. I need to consult with my client about this evidence. Please pause the interview."

Then:

• Take client out for further consultation (10-15 mins)
• Assess whether evidence changes advice
• Consider whether client's strategy needs to change
• Decide whether to continue interview or terminate

Right to do this: Code C 6.6 - right to consult solicitor at any time[2]

Scenario 2: Aggressive/Oppressive Questioning

Improper techniques:

• Shouting at suspect
• Excessive repetition of same question (10+ times)
• Asking questions too quickly for client to process
• Sarcasm or ridicule
• Threats ("If you don't answer, judge will give you maximum sentence")
• Promises ("Admit it and you'll get a caution")

Your intervention:

"Officers, this line of questioning has become oppressive. You've asked my client [describe issue]. This breaches Code C paragraph 11.5[2]. I'm requesting a break."

If it continues:

• Formally request interview termination
• Note exact time and nature of breach
• Report to custody sergeant
• Consider complaint if serious
• Document fully in attendance notes

Case law: R v Paris, Abdullahi and Miller (1993) - oppressive interview led to confession being excluded at trial[6]

Scenario 3: Co-Suspect Interview Tactics

Situation: Client arrested with others, police tell them "Your co-defendant has blamed you."

Police tactics:

• Playing suspects against each other
• Claiming others have confessed (may be lie)
• Suggesting "first to talk gets best deal"
• Showing (or claiming to have) statements from co-suspects

Your advice:

"Don't assume what police say about co-suspects is true - they're allowed to use tactics to encourage you to talk. Focus on YOUR case and what's best for YOU. What others have said doesn't change the evidence against you or the strength of your defence."

Tactical approach:

• If evidence strong regardless of co-suspect: "comment" may be appropriate
• If evidence weak and relies on co-suspect: "no comment" usually safer
• If cut-throat defence possible (blaming co-suspect): consult with supervisor

Scenario 4: Identification Procedures

When ID is an issue:

Police may ask during interview: "Were you at [location] on [date]?"

Danger: Placing yourself at scene when eyewitness ID is weak.

Tactical advice:

If client WAS there but didn't commit offence:

• Option A: Admit presence but deny involvement - "I was in the area but I didn't commit this offence"
• Option B: Prepared statement - "I was in the area for innocent reasons [state reason]. I did not commit this offence."
• Risk: Adverse inference if you later rely on alibi elsewhere at trial[3]

If client WASN'T there:

• Option A: State alibi clearly - "I was at my mother's house in Birmingham, I have witnesses"
• Option B: Prepared statement with alibi details
• Critical: Adverse inference almost certain if you don't raise alibi now and try to rely on it at trial[3]

If client unsure about dates/times:

• Don't guess - admitting presence then correcting it later looks terrible
• "I don't recall exactly but I'd need to check my phone/diary/with family"
• Request bail to verify before answering

ID parade/procedure issues:

If ID procedure likely (Code D)[7]:

• Advise client on rights during ID parade
• Consider whether to consent to parade or request video ID
• Advise on consequences of refusal
• Note poor ID procedure for later challenge

Scenario 5: Forensic Evidence Challenges

DNA/Fingerprints:

Police: "Your DNA was found on the stolen phone."

Advising client:

• DNA/fingerprints prove contact, NOT necessarily guilt
• Innocent explanations? (e.g., "I sold that phone to someone 2 weeks ago, of course my DNA is on it")
• Transfer DNA (touched item innocently)
• Contamination (poor evidence handling)

If innocent explanation exists: Probably worth explaining in interview (subject to strength of other evidence)

If no explanation: No comment may be better

CCTV Evidence:

Police: "CCTV shows you entering the shop at 2:45pm when the theft occurred."

Advising client:

• Being present ≠ committing offence
• CCTV may not show what police claim (ask to view it)
• Quality issues (poor lighting, angle, distance)
• Identification issues (was it definitely you?)

If client WAS there: May need to admit presence but deny involvement

If client WASN'T there: Challenge it - "That's not my client on the CCTV"

Phone Evidence:

Police: "We've analyzed your phone and found [messages/searches/location data]."

Advising client:

• Phone data can be misinterpreted
• Messages may be out of context
• Location data not always accurate
• Someone else may have used phone
• Timing of searches/messages matters

Common mistake: Denying phone is yours when evidence clearly shows it is - damages credibility

Better approach: Admit phone ownership but challenge interpretation of content

Special Categories of Suspect

Juveniles (Under 18)

Mandatory requirements:[4]

• Appropriate adult MUST be present (parent/guardian/social worker/other adult)
• Simpler language required
• Extra breaks if needed
• Shorter interview times
• Greater protection from oppressive questioning

Additional considerations:

• Juvenile more suggestible - higher risk of false confession
• Court treats youth as mitigating factor
• Youth cautions/outcome options available
• May be first time in custody - very frightened

Your approach:

• Build trust quickly
• Explain everything clearly
• Check understanding frequently
• Advocate firmly for breaks
• Ensure appropriate adult understands their role (supporting juvenile, not legal adviser)

Appropriate adult's role:

• Not to provide legal advice (that's your job)
• To support and assist juvenile
• To facilitate communication
• To ensure interview fair
• To observe and intervene if concerns[4]

Vulnerable Adults

Who qualifies:[2]

• Mental disorder
• Mental vulnerability (learning disability, autism)
• Appears unable to understand or communicate effectively

Same protections as juveniles:

• Appropriate adult required
• Simplified language
• Extra breaks
• Careful explanation of caution

Your assessment:

Does client:

• Understand questions?
• Understand consequences of answers?
• Understand caution?
• Seem suggestible?
• Have mental health history?

If concerns:

• Request mental health assessment
• Request appropriate adult if not already present
• Consider delaying interview
• Simplify advice
• Check understanding repeatedly

Appropriate adult for adults:

• Family member
• Social worker
• Other responsible adult
• NOT police employee
• NOT another professional (e.g., healthcare) already involved

Intoxicated Suspects

Assessment:[2]

Custody officer should assess fitness for interview.

If visibly intoxicated:

• Slurred speech
• Unsteady
• Confused
• Drowsy

Your role:

• Challenge fitness for interview: "My client is clearly still intoxicated and not fit for interview"
• Request healthcare professional assessment
• Request delay until sober (usually 6-12 hours)
• If police insist on proceeding: strongly advise no comment
• Document intoxication level in notes

Chronic alcoholics/addicts:

• May need appropriate adult even when not currently intoxicated
• Withdrawal symptoms affect fitness
• Request medical attention for withdrawal

Suspects with Mental Health Issues

Common presentations:

• Anxiety/depression
• Psychosis/schizophrenia
• Bipolar disorder
• PTSD
• Autism spectrum
• ADHD

Your assessment:

"Are you currently taking any medication?"
"Have you seen a doctor/psychiatrist recently?"
"Do you have any diagnosed mental health conditions?"
"Do you feel able to concentrate and understand questions?"

If concerns:

• Request healthcare professional (HCP) to assess
• Request appropriate adult if mental disorder/vulnerability apparent
• May need to wait for medication if client hasn't had prescribed dose
• Consider whether interview should proceed at all

Code C requirements:

"If an officer has any doubt about the mental state or capacity of a detainee, that detainee should be treated as mentally vulnerable"[2]

Foreign Nationals

Language barrier:

• Police MUST provide interpreter (Code C 13)[2]
• DO NOT proceed without interpreter
• DO NOT rely on friend/family member as interpreter
• Interpreter must be independent and qualified

Through interpreter:

• Speak slowly and clearly
• Use simple language
• Check understanding frequently
• Allow extra time for everything
• Be patient

Cultural considerations:

• Some cultures mistrust police/lawyers
• Eye contact norms vary
• Concept of legal advice may be unfamiliar
• In some countries, admitting guilt gets lenient treatment (opposite in UK)

Additional rights:

• Right to inform consulate (Code C 7)[2]
• Immigration status may be concern (advise this separately - outside PACE matter)

Intervention Scripts & Templates

Template 1: Requesting Break

"Officers, my client needs a break. We've been interviewing for [time] and [reason: client is tired/distressed/needs toilet/needs food]. I'm requesting a 15-minute break under Code C 12.2[2]."

Template 2: Challenging Improper Question

"Excuse me, that question is [improper/leading/speculative]. [Explain why]. Could you rephrase or move to a different topic?"

Examples:

• "That's a hypothetical question - it asks my client to speculate."
• "That question assumes facts not in evidence."
• "That's argumentative rather than investigative."

Template 3: Requesting Further Disclosure

"Officers, you've mentioned [CCTV/witness statement/forensic evidence]. This wasn't disclosed before interview. Under Code C 11.1A, my client is entitled to sufficient information to make informed decisions[2]. I'm requesting [to view the CCTV/see the witness description/hear the forensic evidence] before continuing."

Template 4: Terminating Interview

"Officers, I'm advising my client not to continue with this interview because [insufficient disclosure/client unfit/oppressive questioning]. We are terminating the interview at this time. You may of course re-interview when [disclosure is provided/client has rested/appropriate adult arrives]."

Template 5: Noting PACE Breach

"For the recording, I note that [describe breach]. This breaches PACE Code C paragraph [X.X]. I am advising my client of this breach and it will be included in my attendance notes."

Post-Interview Tactics

Negotiating Bail Conditions

If client to be bailed:

Speak to investigating officer about proposed conditions.

Common bail conditions:

• Reside at specific address
• Curfew (e.g., 8pm-7am)
• Non-contact with witnesses/victims
• Exclusion from certain area
• Report to police station regularly
• Surrender passport
• Restrictions on children/vulnerable persons contact

Negotiating:

Too restrictive curfew: "My client works night shifts. A 7pm curfew would mean losing their job. Can we do 11pm-6am instead?"

Unnecessary residence condition: "My client has stable accommodation and strong community ties. Is a residence condition actually necessary for the investigation?"

Overly broad exclusion zone: "The exclusion zone includes my client's workplace and GP surgery. Can we narrow it to a specific street/building?"

Remember: Police can only impose conditions necessary for:

• Preventing further offences
• Preventing interference with witnesses/evidence
• Ensuring attendance at court[8]

If unreasonable conditions imposed:

• Challenge at station
• Note objections
• Client can apply to court to vary bail (Magistrates' Court)

Managing Charging Decisions

If client to be charged:

Understand charging threshold:

• Realistic prospect of conviction (evidential test)[9]
• Public interest in prosecution

Your role:

• Explain charges in simple terms
• Explain court process
• Explain likely bail conditions or custody overnight
• Explain legal aid going forward
• Explain need for solicitor representation at court

If you believe charge inappropriate:

• Make representations to investigating officer
• Cite evidential weaknesses
• Note alternative disposals (caution, community resolution)
• Document your representations

If charge decision delayed:

• Common for complex/serious cases
• May be referred to CPS for charging decision
• Client released on bail pending charge decision

Professional Conduct Issues

Conflicts of Interest

Cannot represent:

• Client when you also represent co-suspect with competing interests
• Client when firm represents victim/witness
• Client when you have personal relationship affecting impartiality

If conflict arises:

• Withdraw immediately
• Explain to client and custody officer
• Arrange alternative representation
• Don't disclose confidential information from conflicted matter

Gray areas:

• Representing co-suspects with aligned interests (both denying, both no comment): usually okay
• Representing suspect in related investigation to other client: assess carefully

Confidentiality

Absolute duty:[10]

Everything client tells you is confidential unless:

1. Client consents to disclosure
2. Prevention of serious crime/harm (very limited exception)
3. Court order

Common breaches to avoid:

• Discussing client's case with other reps (even anonymously can breach confidentiality)
• Leaving notes visible in custody suite
• Talking about case in public areas
• Sharing case details on social media
• Emailing attendance notes insecurely

Recording Conversations

Legal position:

You MAY record consultations if:

• Client consents
• For note-taking purposes
• Stored securely
• Not shared

You MAY NOT:

• Record police interviews (equipment is provided by police)
• Record without client consent
• Record for improper purposes

Best practice:

• Usually just use handwritten notes
• Recording equipment can make clients nervous
• If you do record: delete after writing notes or retain securely

Managing Your Own Performance

Self-Reflection After Each Case

Questions to ask yourself:

• Did I give clear, comprehensive advice?
• Did I spot all the PACE issues?
• Did I intervene when I should have?
• Did I miss any defences or legal points?
• Was my interview strategy correct?
• Could I have negotiated better (bail conditions, outcome)?
• Did I document everything properly?

If mistakes made:

• Learn from them
• Discuss with supervisor
• Don't repeat

When to Seek Supervision

Call your supervisor IMMEDIATELY:

• Unfamiliar offence with complex legal issues
• Major PACE breach you're unsure how to handle
• Client's account raises conflict of interest
• Suspect vulnerable and you're uncertain about capacity
• Police refusing to comply with reasonable request
• You've made an error and need to correct it
• Ethical dilemma

Don't struggle alone:

• Supervisors expect calls
• Better to check than guess
• No shame in asking

Building Interview Confidence

Early career tips:

1. Observe experienced reps - ask to shadow 5-10 interviews before doing your own
2. Start simple - request simpler cases initially (theft, possession)
3. Debrief after every case - what went well? what would you change?
4. Read interview transcripts - learn how good interviewers structure questions
5. Practice interventions - role-play with colleagues
6. Learn from mistakes - keep reflective log

Footnotes & References

[1] Home Office (2023) - PEACE interview model - Police Interview Training Manual - https://www.college.police.uk/app/investigation/investigative-interviewing

[2] PACE Code C: Code of Practice for the Detention, Treatment and Questioning of Persons by Police Officers (2023 revision) - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/pace-code-c-2019
Para 6.6: Right to private consultation
Para 11.5: Not oppressive
Para 12.2: Breaks and refreshments
Para 13: Interpreters

[3] Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, s.34 - adverse inferences from silence - https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1994/33/section/34

[4] PACE Code C, s.1 - appropriate adults for juveniles - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/pace-code-c-2019

[5] R v Mason [1988] 1 WLR 139 - police may use deception during interviews within limits

[6] R v Paris, Abdullahi and Miller (1993) 97 Cr App R 99 - oppressive interviewing leading to confession exclusion

[7] PACE Code D: Code of Practice for the Identification of Persons by Police Officers - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/pace-code-d-2017

[8] Bail Act 1976, s.3(6) - grounds for imposing bail conditions - https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1976/63/section/3

[9] Code for Crown Prosecutors (CPS) - evidential and public interest tests - https://www.cps.gov.uk/publication/code-crown-prosecutors

[10] SRA Code of Conduct for Solicitors, Principle 6 - confidentiality - https://www.sra.org.uk/solicitors/standards-regulations/code-conduct-solicitors/

Document Version: 1.0 (January 2025)
Last Updated: Based on PACE Codes and case law current as of January 2025
Author: PoliceStationRepUK Editorial Team
Review Date: June 2025

This guide provides general information only. Always refer to current PACE Codes, seek supervisor guidance on complex cases, and use professional judgment in each situation.