3. Police Interviews

You have a right to free legal advice in police custody and should use a solicitor experienced in protest law (not the duty solicitor).

Currently, in order to maintain social distancing, police guidance is that your solicitor should advise you via telephone rather than in person.

If you are interviewed, the police interviewer may either be in person as usual or via video link (up to the police). The guidance is for your solicitor to be present via video link. If video link is not possible, and the police want to use audio link to the solicitor, they need your written consent. For “serious” cases, vulnerable people, or if you do not consent to video support, the solicitor should be present in person.

For children, and for vulnerable adults who require one, an “appropriate adult” must always be present in person.

If English is not your first language, you are entitled to an interpreter. This may be remotely via video or audio link.

The police should provide PPE to everyone who is physically in the same interview room.