Under Police Investigation? Early Legal Advice Can Make All the Difference

If you’ve recently been informed that you’re under police investigation, it’s natural to feel uncertain or overwhelmed. But one thing is certain; the sooner you obtain legal advice, the stronger your position will be. At Rees Clayton Solicitors, we advise clients not to wait for formal charges, proactive legal guidance from the outset can significantly improve your chances of a positive outcome.

Why Early Legal Intervention Is So Important

It’s a common misconception that solicitors only become involved after charges are brought. The stage before charges when the police are still gathering evidence and building a case, is often where critical decisions are made. Engaging legal representation early on allows your defence team to influence proceedings before they escalate.

What’s at Risk if You Delay?

• Missed Opportunities to Influence the Case: Acting early enables your solicitor to challenge flawed evidence, present relevant facts, and raise alternative explanations with investigators. Delay can mean these opportunities are lost along with key supporting evidence.
• Risk of Saying the Wrong Thing: During interviews, what you say can have long-lasting consequences. Without expert advice, it’s easy to make statements that are open to misinterpretation or used out of context. Legal guidance ensures your responses are strategic and informed.
• Prolonged Uncertainty: Cases that are not handled proactively can drag on, sometimes for months or longer. This creates stress, impacts your daily life, and can leave your reputation in limbo. Having a solicitor involved early can help keep matters on track and speed up decision-making.
• Loss of Time-Sensitive Evidence: Witness statements, digital records, CCTV footage, these can all disappear or degrade if not secured quickly. A solicitor can act swiftly to obtain and preserve important material to support your defence.

Your Legal Rights During an Investigation

• Free Legal Advice: Whether you’re under arrest or attending voluntarily, you are entitled to speak with a solicitor at no cost. This applies regardless of the nature of the alleged offence.
• No Police Questioning Without Legal Support: Once you request legal advice, the police must pause questioning until you’ve had the opportunity to consult with your solicitor.
• Right to Know the Nature of the Allegations: Your solicitor can request details about the case against you, helping you understand the allegations and prepare a clear, effective response.

How Rees Clayton Solicitors Can Assist You

1. Rapid Access to Expert Legal Advice: We provide immediate and confidential advice from the moment you become aware of an investigation. Our team is on hand day or night to support you at this critical time.
2. Strategic Early-Stage Defence: We don’t wait for things to escalate. Our solicitors engage directly with the police, highlight weaknesses in the evidence, and aim to resolve matters before charges are even considered.
3. Preparation and Protection for Police Interviews: We guide you through what to expect during interviews and ensure that your rights are respected throughout. We accompany you to the station, offering real-time advice and intervening where necessary.
4. Case Oversight and Ongoing Support: Whether you’re released under investigation or subject to bail conditions, we stay involved, liaise with the police, track progress, and push for decisions. We also assist with retrieving seized property and advising on any restrictions placed on you.

Don’t Leave Your Future to Chance

Time is of the essence when you’re under investigation. The right advice at the right moment can prevent unnecessary charges, reduce stress, and protect your good name. At Rees Clayton Solicitors, we’re committed to standing by your side from the very beginning.

Call us now on 0330 053 6767 or 01282 678 067 for a free, confidential consultation.