[suspects might not realise that a voluntary interview is just as serious and important as being interviewed after arrest]
When the police investigate a criminal offence, it may not be necessary to formally arrest a suspect. In the past, it would be common practice that those being questioned by the police were arrested. Now, with the introduction of the 28-day bail limit, it is becoming a more accepted method for the police to question suspects by way of a ‘voluntary interview’.
The benefit of a voluntary interview is that you can negotiate a mutually convenient venue, date and time with the officer, and there will be no delays, particularly if you instruct a solicitor beforehand. However, there can be disadvantages for those who are unsure of exactly what being a volunteer entails.
Read more: Gemma Blythe, Tuckers Solicitors, http://bit.ly/2z15XFM
