Accredited Police Station Representative — Guide
What accreditation means under PSRAS, how the Police Station Register works, and the difference between probationary and fully accredited status.
Last updated: 1 June 2026 · Author: Robert Cashman, Duty Solicitor & Higher Court Advocate
What is an accredited representative?
An accredited police station representative is a non-solicitor qualified under PSRAS to advise suspects at custody under PACE. Accreditation is competence-based — written assessment, supervised portfolio, and the Critical Incidents Test — not a law degree.
PSRAS and assessment organisations
The scheme is authorised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Cardiff University and Datalaw run assessments. Enrol through your supervising firm's chosen provider. See the full 2026 route guide for each stage.
Police Station Register
The Legal Aid Agency maintains the register via the Defence Solicitor Call Centre (DSCC). After passing the written test, firms submit ADMIN 2 to add you as probationary. After portfolio and CIT, you become fully accredited. DSCC forms and engaged requirements: DSCC registration guide.
Probationary vs fully accredited
Probationary
On the register after written test. Must work under direct supervision. Cannot freelance independently. Building Part A/B portfolio.
Fully accredited
After CIT pass. Can cover for firms with reduced supervision subject to contract rules. Freelance rota work is common.
Ongoing requirements
You remain on the register while engaged by an SCC firm and meeting contract and DSCC notification rules. Firms must keep register data accurate. Verify current requirements in the Standard Crime Contract 2025 and PSRAS / register guidance.
Frequently asked questions
Who accredits police station representatives?+
The Police Station Representatives Accreditation Scheme (PSRAS) is authorised by the SRA. Cardiff University and Datalaw are the assessment organisations. The Legal Aid Agency maintains the Police Station Register via the Defence Solicitor Call Centre (DSCC).
What is the difference between probationary and fully accredited?+
After passing the written exam (or proving exemption) and Part A of the portfolio, you are registered as a probationary representative with a PIN. After Part B and the CIT, you become fully accredited.
Can I work freelance once accredited?+
Fully accredited reps often work freelance for multiple SCC firms. You still need a firm to instruct you and carry you on their contract. Probationary reps cannot freelance independently.
Do I need to re-accredit?+
You remain on the Register subject to firm engagement, contract compliance, and DSCC/LAA requirements. Firms must notify changes. Check current SCC 2025 and PSRAS guidance for standing eligibility rules.
Related guides
Sources & further reading
Links are to official publishers (legislation, gov.uk, CPS, LAA, Sentencing Council). Case law on this site is limited to entries in our verified case-law registry. Always confirm the current version before relying on it in live advice.
Need help?
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