Voluntary Police Interview for Harassment

A voluntary police interview for harassment is a formal interview where you are asked to attend the police station to discuss an allegation without being arrested.

A voluntary police interview for harassment in the UK is a serious matter, and understanding your rights and the process is essential. Even though the interview is voluntary, and you are not under arrest, anything you say can be used against you, so it’s important to approach the situation carefully.

Always get legal advice before attending a voluntary police interview for harassment. A duty solicitor or criminal defence solicitor can make sure you understand your rights and help you navigate the process in the safest possible way.

If you've been invited to a voluntary police interview for harassment, call our criminal defence solicitors at 0203 959 7755 to guide you through every stage.

Table of Contents

What is a voluntary police interview for harassment?

A voluntary police interview for harassment is when the police invite you to attend an interview about an alleged harassment incident. While you are not under arrest during the interview, it is a formal process, and anything you say can be used as evidence in the investigation or in court.

It’s an opportunity for the police to gather information about your involvement or knowledge of the case.

Even though it's called "voluntary," the situation is serious, and having an experienced criminal defence solicitor by your side is highly recommended.

If you are facing a voluntary police interview for harassment, contact Moeen & Co. Solicitors now at 0203 959 7755 for clear, professional advice and guidance.

What counts as harassment?

In the UK, harassment usually means a "course of conduct" in other words, it’s not just a one-off incident. There must be at least two separate occurrences where someone's actions caused you distress, fear, or upset. It doesn’t need to involve violence; even persistent unwanted communication or being followed can be harassment.

What happens during a voluntary police interview for harassment?

During the interview, you will be cautioned and asked questions about the alleged harassment. The interview will be recorded, and anything you say may later be used as evidence. You are allowed breaks, can ask for legal advice, and can leave at any point if you choose to.

Key aspects of a voluntary police interview for harassment:

1. You Are Not Under Arrest, But Under Caution

When invited to a voluntary police interview, you are not being arrested. However, the police will caution you, meaning they will inform you that anything you say can be used against you in the investigation or court. This is a legal requirement and ensures that you understand your rights and the potential consequences of your statements.

2. Voluntary Attendance

Although the interview is voluntary, it’s crucial to take it seriously. You are free to attend the interview or refuse to attend, but if you choose to attend, you are also free to leave at any time unless you are arrested during the interview. It’s important to note that leaving the interview before it's finished could potentially affect the police investigation.

3. The Interview is Recorded

One of the most important aspects of a voluntary police interview is that it is recorded. This is done to ensure that there is an accurate account of what was said during the interview. Anything you say can be used as evidence in the investigation, so it’s vital to be mindful of your words.

4. Right to Legal Representation

You have the right to legal representation during a voluntary police interview. You can speak to a solicitor before and during the interview to ensure that your rights are protected and to help you understand the implications of any statements you make. It's always a good idea to have legal advice, as anything you say during the interview can have serious consequences.

5. Potential Consequences

Even though a voluntary police interview may seem informal, it can still lead to criminal charges if the police gather enough evidence during the interview. The police might suspect you of being involved in a harassment incident or believe you have valuable information about the case. The interview is part of their investigation process, and depending on the evidence collected, you could face legal action, including arrest or charges.

6. Why You Might Be Invited

Police may invite you to a voluntary interview if they suspect you are involved in a harassment case or if they believe you have important information related to the investigation. It’s important to understand that the police are gathering evidence and may want to hear your side of the story.

Do I have to attend a voluntary police interview for harassment?

No, attending a voluntary police interview is not mandatory. You are invited to the interview, but you are free to refuse to attend. However, it’s important to understand that refusing to attend could raise suspicion or have implications in the ongoing investigation.

If you do choose to attend, you can also leave at any time unless you are arrested during the interview.

What happens if I refuse to attend the voluntary police interview?

Refusing to attend a voluntary police interview may not result in immediate legal consequences, but it could raise suspicion or affect the investigation. In some cases, the police may apply for an arrest warrant or use other means to get you to attend an interview. It’s always a good idea to consult a solicitor if you are considering refusing the interview.

Can I leave the interview at any time?

Yes, you are free to leave the voluntary police interview at any time, unless you are arrested. However, if you choose to leave, it’s recommended to consult with a solicitor beforehand to understand the potential consequences of walking out of the interview.

Is the voluntary police interview recorded?

Yes, the entire interview is recorded. This is done to ensure that there is an accurate record of everything that is said during the interview. Anything you say can be used as evidence in the investigation or court, so it’s important to be careful with your responses.

Can a voluntary police interview for harassment lead to charges?

Yes, even though the interview is voluntary, it can lead to criminal charges if the police gather enough evidence during the interview. If you are implicated in the harassment incident or if you provide information that leads to further evidence, charges could be brought against you.

How long does a voluntary police interview for harassment usually take?

Most voluntary police interviews for harassment typically last between 1 to 2 hours, but the time can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the number of questions. Remember, you are entitled to breaks during longer interviews.

What happens after a voluntary police interview for harassment?

After the voluntary interview for harassment, the police will review the information gathered. If they find sufficient evidence, they may decide to press charges. If not, the case may be dropped, or the investigation may continue without charges. In some cases, the police may invite you for further questioning.

Here are the possible outcomes after a voluntary interview:

1. No Further Action (NFA)
2. Release Under Investigation (RUI)
3. Formal Caution
4. Charged and Court Proceedings
5. Further Investigation

No Further Action (NFA)

The case might be dropped if there's not enough evidence or if it's clear you weren't involved. Note: Even with an NFA, records of the interview may still be kept on file.

Release Under Investigation (RUI)

If police need more time to investigate, you could be released under investigation. This doesn't mean you're guilty; it just means inquiries are ongoing.

Formal Caution

If you admit to an offence and it's considered minor, the police might offer a formal caution instead of charging you. This is recorded but avoids court proceedings.

Charged and Court Proceedings

If there's enough evidence, you could be formally charged. This means you may have to attend court, either on bail or via a summons.

Further Investigation

In some cases, the police might need to carry out more investigations after the interview before making any final decisions.

Important Tip: Always have a duty solicitor or criminal defence solicitor present before, during, and after a voluntary interview for harassment. They can help protect your rights and guide you if things move forward.

What should I do if I am invited to a voluntary police interview for harassment?

If you are invited to a voluntary police interview for harassment, stay calm, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact Moeen & Co. Solicitors at 0203 959 7755 for expert advice and representation.

 Here’s what you should do:

1. Consult a solicitor: Speak to our criminal defence solicitor to understand your rights and the implications of attending the interview.
2. Prepare for the interview: Understand that anything you say can be used as evidence. You have the right to remain silent if you feel your response could incriminate you.
3. Stay calm and respectful: Be polite and respectful throughout the interview. This will help maintain a professional atmosphere.

What rights do I have during a voluntary police interview?

You have the right to remain silent, the right to legal advice, and the right to stop the interview and leave at any time. However, anything you say during the interview could be used as evidence, so it's important to consider your responses carefully.

During a voluntary police interview, you have several rights:

• You have the right to legal representation.
• You have the right to remain silent if you don’t want to incriminate yourself.
• You have the right to leave the interview at any time, unless you are arrested.
• You have the right to know that anything you say can be used against you in court.

How can I prepare for a voluntary police interview?

To prepare for a voluntary police interview, you should:

• Speak with a solicitor: Get legal advice and understand your rights.
• Understand the process: Know that the interview is recorded and that your statements can be used as evidence.
• Stay calm and collected: Be respectful and avoid saying anything that could be harmful to your case.

Why you should always have a solicitor with you

Having a solicitor during a voluntary police interview for harassment isn't just about comfort, it's about protection. A solicitor can:

• Ensure your rights are upheld
• Advise you when to answer or not answer questions
• Help you avoid saying anything that might harm your case
• Provide vital support if the police try to pressure you

Contact a solicitor for a voluntary interview for harassment

Invited to a voluntary police interview for harassment? Contact our criminal defence solicitors at 0203 959 7755 for legal advice and representation.