When Police either witness criminal conduct or receive a complaint from a member of the public in relation to an alleged crime, they will seek to put allegations to any potential suspect at interview. In more serious cases, this is usually done following the arrest of the suspect. In less serious matters, Police will usually invite the suspect to their local station as a “Voluntary attender” and a digitally recorded interview will take place.

Whether an interview is conducted following an arrest or during voluntary attendance, the primary role of the police officer as an investigator remains the same. Simply put, it is to secure and preserve evidence by way of questioning. Crucially, the interests and welfare of any suspect in a crime, whether that be for careless driving or, at the other end of the spectrum, murder, ARE NOT A MATERIAL CONSIDERATION OF THE INVESTIGATING OFFICER.

For that reason alone, it is crucial that citizens have access to experienced Criminal Defence Solicitors during interview as the rights, interests and overall welfare of any suspect is the sole focus of these specialised Lawyers.

It remains a matter of significant concern to me that most members of the public are not aware that they are entitled to the assistance of a Criminal Defence Solicitor at interview, regardless of how trivial or serious the alleged crime may be. Furthermore, every suspect is entitled to FREE legal advice and assistance at this critical initial stage of the criminal process, regardless of their means.

Many of my clients have indicated to me throughout the years that they elected not to be legally represented at interview, believing that they were innocent and the presence of a Solicitor to protect their rights would somehow indicate to the police that they had something to hide. This would be a false and potentially damaging assumption on their behalf. The fundamental right to a Solicitor at interview is enshrined in Law and, drawing on my own experience, I have represented many innocent clients throughout the years who have been prosecuted through the courts and ultimately acquitted in circumstances where my intervention during the course of a police interview played a pivotal role in the successful conclusion to the case.

Within John J. McNally and Company, I lead a dedicated and experienced team of Criminal Defence Solicitors who operate in Police stations throughout the North of Ireland, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. I have huge respect for the fellow members of my profession who perform such a vital public service in tense and testing conditions, often during unsocial hours and for rates of Legal aid pay which have not increased in all my years of practice.

Should you require solicitor representation at a police station John J McNally are here to assist 365 days per year.