Legal issues
Finding out where they are
The person in custody has the right to have someone told of their arrest. If you ask, the police may tell you where they are held, if the person agrees, unless that right has been lawfully delayed for a serious offence.
Getting them a solicitor
You can contact a firm directly. The firm will call the station. The person decides whether to accept that solicitor; they can also ask for the duty solicitor.
Legal Aid or private
Police station advice is free under Legal Aid for everyone. Some families prefer to pay privately for a solicitor of their choice and continuity into any court case. See Legal Aid or a private solicitor.
Evidence that matters
Anything you say to the person on a police phone, or to officers, may be noted. Phone calls from custody, other than to a solicitor, may be listened to.
Reasonable lines of enquiry
Useful things you can do
- Preserve, without altering, anything that may help, such as messages, receipts or CCTV that may be overwritten.
- Write down names of potential witnesses, but do not contact them about the case.
- Gather proof of address and work in case bail is considered.
What happens next
Most people are released within 24 hours: charged, bailed, released under investigation or released with no further action. See how long the police can keep you in custody and what happens after a police interview.
Immediate steps
- Call a solicitor with their full name, date of birth and the police station.
- Tell the police about any medication or vulnerability.
- If they are under 18, be ready to act as appropriate adult.
- Do not post about the arrest on social media.
What should you send us?
Their full name, date of birth, the police station, roughly when they were arrested, and any medical or communication needs.