Criminal Defence Solicitors – Free Police Station Representation
If you’ve been arrested in England or North Wales, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is whether to answer police questions or give a “no comment” interview.
This guide explains your rights, the risks, and when remaining silent may — or may not — be the right legal strategy.
What Is a “No Comment” Interview?
After arrest, police will interview you under caution at a police station. The interview is recorded and can be used as evidence in court.
You will hear the official caution:
“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.”
A “no comment” interview means responding “no comment” to some or all police questions.
Police Interview Rights in England and North Wales
Whether you are interviewed by North Wales Police or any other force in England and Wales:
You have the right to free legal advice
You can speak to a solicitor before interview
Legal representation at the police station is independent and free of charge
You are not required to answer questions
Never attend a voluntary police interview or custody interview without a criminal defence solicitor.
Pros and Cons of a “No Comment” Interview
✅ Potential Advantages
Avoids inconsistencies under pressure
Prevents accidental self-incrimination
Useful where police disclosure is limited
May be strategic in weak evidence cases
❌ Potential Risks
Under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 (which applies in England and Wales), a court may draw an “adverse inference” if:
You remain silent in interview
You later rely on a defence not mentioned earlier
This could affect how a Magistrates’ Court or Crown Court jury views your case.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ Do I have to answer police questions?
No. You have a legal right to silence in England and Wales.
❓ Is “no comment” always the best option?
No. Every case is different. In some situations, giving a clear account early can prevent a charge.
❓ Can staying silent make me look guilty?
Not automatically. However, if you later raise something you did not mention in interview, the court may question why.
❓ Is a voluntary interview less serious?
No. A voluntary police interview under caution carries the same legal weight as one conducted after arrest.
❓ Is police station advice really free?
Yes. Legal advice at the police station is publicly funded and free, whether you are arrested in Chester, Wrexham, Wirral, Liverpool, Manchester, or elsewhere in England and North Wales.
When Should You Consider “No Comment”?
It may be appropriate where:
Evidence appears weak
Disclosure is incomplete
You are vulnerable or distressed
A prepared written statement is being used
The decision should always be made after speaking with a criminal defence solicitor experienced in police station representation across England and North Wales.
Immediate Police Station Advice – England & North Wales
If you have been:
Arrested
Invited to a voluntary interview
Asked to attend a police station
Contacted by the Police, Merseyside, Lancashire, GMP, North Wales Police and the MET all have their own procedure for voluntary interviews
Seek urgent legal advice before answering any questions.
Early representation can:
Prevent charge
Protect your defence
Reduce risk of adverse inferences
Strengthen your position from the outset
Speak to a Criminal Defence Solicitor Today
If you require police interview advice in England or North Wales, contact a specialist criminal defence solicitor immediately.
Fast, strategic advice at the police station can make the difference between:
No further action
A formal charge
Or a contested court case