If someone you know is in custody
Three things to do, in order:
- Note which station they are at, and ask the custody sergeant for the custody number.
- Call 07922 247 999 with that information.
- Ask the station to hold the interview until a representative is present. Astons Law Chambers makes the same request on the call.
If you don't have the station or the custody number, call anyway. The first call is free and Astons Law Chambers can help locate the right station.
What attendance at the station covers
A criminal defence barrister attends the station and represents the suspect through the interview:
- Disclosure of the allegation from the officer in the case, before any decision on plea or answer.
- Private consultation with the suspect — what to say, what not to say, and why.
- Representation during the interview itself, including no-comment advice where it is the right call.
- Bail representations to the custody sergeant and post-interview advice on next steps.
Instructing directly
Police station support can be instructed direct.
Astons Law Chambers is authorised under the Bar Standards Board's Public Access scheme. A solicitor is not required for police station representation.
How Direct Access works →Common questions
- How quickly can someone attend?
- Attendance is arranged from the same call. Travel time to the station depends on its location, but the request to delay interview is made immediately.
- Is the suspect entitled to a lawyer?
- Yes. Anyone held at a police station is entitled to free legal advice and to have a representative present at interview. They do not have to accept the duty solicitor.
- What does private representation cost?
- A single written fee is set out in a client-care letter before any attendance. Indicative ranges are on the Fees page.
- Is legal aid available at the police station?
- Yes — and it is free at the police station, regardless of income. Private instruction is the choice clients make when they want a specific representative rather than the duty solicitor. See how legal aid works at Astons Law Chambers for the wider case.
- Can the same barrister carry the case after the police station?
- Yes, where the case suits a single counsel. Astons Law Chambers is authorised to conduct litigation, so the practice can run the file end-to-end without a separate solicitor.
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