What Does a Police Station Representative Actually Do?

A Typical Police Station AttendanceWhat Reps Cannot DoFrequently Asked QuestionsOverview of the RoleA police station representative (often called a "rep" or "accredited representative") is a qualified legal professional who provides advice and assistance to people detained by police under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE).Representatives are accredited through the Police Station Representatives Accreditation Scheme (PSRAS), which is authorised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and administered by Cardiff University and Datalaw.Unlike duty solicitors, representatives work under the supervision of a qualified solicitor who holds a Legal Aid Agency contract. The representative attends the police station, while the solicitor provides oversight and takes responsibility for the case.Key Tasks & Responsibilities

Speaking with the client privately to understand their situation and any previous history

Examining the evidence police intend to use and identifying gaps or issues

Sitting with the client during police interview, intervening when necessary

Ensuring PACE time limits are observed and the client's rights are protected

Communicating with custody staff, investigating officers, and the supervising solicitor

Advising on whether to answer questions, make a prepared statement, or exercise right to silence

1. Call from DSCC or Firm: The representative receives notification of a new case, either from the Defence Solicitor Call Centre (DSCC) or directly from their supervising firm.2. Travel to Station: The rep travels to the custody suite, often at unsociable hours. Response times are typically expected within 45 minutes to an hour.3. Custody Record Review: On arrival, the rep reviews the custody record, checking detention times, rights given, and any vulnerabilities.4. Disclosure: The rep speaks with the investigating officer to obtain disclosure – the evidence the police have and what they intend to ask about.5. Private Consultation: The rep meets privately with the client to discuss the allegations, take instructions, and advise on the best approach.6. Interview: The rep sits with the client during the recorded interview, taking notes, intervening if questions are improper, and supporting the client.7. Post-Interview: After interview, the rep advises on any charging decision, bail conditions, or further action required.8. Reporting: The rep completes an attendance note and reports back to the supervising solicitor with details of what occurred.

Represent clients in court (magistrates or Crown Court)Provide advice without solicitor supervisionConduct litigation or issue court proceedingsHandle matters outside police station work (e.g., civil claims)Accept instructions directly from the public without a firm

A police station representative is an accredited legal professional who provides advice and assistance to people detained at police stations. They are qualified through the PSRAS scheme and work under the supervision of a solicitor.

No, police station representatives can only advise clients at the police station. Court representation requires a solicitor or barrister. However, reps can prepare the case for court proceedings.

Yes, if you qualify for legal aid (which most people do at the police station), advice from a police station representative is completely free regardless of income.

A duty solicitor is a fully qualified solicitor on the national duty scheme. A representative is accredited through PSRAS and works under solicitor supervision. Both can attend police stations, but only solicitors can represent in court.

You need to complete the PSRAS accreditation process, including training, a portfolio of supervised attendances, and passing the Critical Incidents Test. See our guide for full details.How to Become a RepFind a RepresentativeWritten by Robert Cashman, Duty Solicitor. Last updated: March 2026.