Police investigations

Expert defence · Absolute discretion · Focused on you

We know that police investigations are a stressful time, but it’s also a crucially important time. It is your opportunity to get ahead of the prosecution and perhaps even stop it before it ever grows into a court case.

The decisions made during the police investigation have a significant impact on the outcome of a case. Obtaining experienced legal advice early will ensure the strongest possible defence case.

At Hartley's Solicitors, we advise and represent private clients at every stage of a police investigation. We provide clear, strategic advice designed to protect your interests and help you make informed decisions.

Arrange a consultation

Discreet · Strategic · Relentless

Police investigations

Expert defence · Absolute discretion · Focused on you

We know that police investigations are a stressful time, but it’s also a crucially important time. It is your opportunity to get ahead of the prosecution and perhaps even stop it before it ever grows into a court case.

The decisions made during the police investigation have a significant impact on the outcome of a case. Obtaining experienced legal advice early will ensure the strongest possible defence case.

At Hartley's Solicitors, we advise and represent private clients at every stage of a police investigation. We provide clear, strategic advice designed to protect your interests and help you make informed decisions.

Arrange a consultation

Discreet · Strategic · Relentless

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Early advice makes a big difference

Many people wait until they have been charged before seeking legal advice. That is a mistake. The investigation stage is a vital opportunity to put forward a defence and stop the investigation in its tracks.

Police officers gather evidence, conduct interviews, obtain witness statements, analyse digital material and make decisions about how an investigation will proceed. The information obtained during this stage will determine whether a prosecution is brought at all. This is your chance to stop a prosecution happening.

Early legal representation means that:

  • You understand the nature of the allegations being investigated.
  • You are properly advised before being interviewed by police
  • Your rights are protected through the investigation
  • Representations are made to investigators and prosecuting lawyers
  • Weaknesses in the evidence are identified at an early stage
  • Strategic decisions are taken to help you put your case well

When we can assist

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Invited to attend an interview under caution
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Released on police bail
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Informed you are a suspect
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Asked to provide a statement or account
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Contacted by specialist police or investigators
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Served with notices require the production of documents

We regularly advise individuals facing investigations ranging from simple and straightforward to high complex and sensitive matters. We are here to help.

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Invited to an interview under caution

Many people mistakenly assume that a voluntary interview is less serious than an arrest. However, the purpose of the interview is exactly the same: to obtain evidence which may later be used in a prosecution.

Before any interview takes place, it is important to understand what the police are investigating, what evidence that have, what evidence they are likely to obtain in future, and from there we can advise on what approach should be taken during questioning.

We can attend police interviews with you, advise you before the interview takes place and ensure that your interests are properly protected throughout the process.

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Ongoing Investigations

Police investigations can continue for many months, even years.

During this period, individuals are left with little information about the progress of enquiries and considerable uncertainty about what may happen next.

We provide ongoing advice throughout the investigation process, helping clients understand developments in their case and responding to requests from investigators where doing so will assist you. We can also make representations to the police and prosecutors on your behalf and even court applications where necessary to secure the return of property or end unfair police bail conditions.

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Strategic defence advice and planning

No two investigations are the same.

Effective representation requires more than simply reacting to events as they occur. It requires careful consideration of the evidence, the investigative process and the likely direction of the case. That can mean gathering defence evidence in parallel to the police investigation.

Our role is to help clients understand the legal and practical issues they face, identify potential risks and opportunities, and make informed decisions throughout the investigation.

We work proactively to obtain and present relevant evidence, address misunderstandings and advance our clients' position at an early stage.

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Private representation

Clients choose private representation for a variety of reasons. Some require urgent access to specialist advice. Others prefer the reassurance of knowing their solicitor is not overloaded with other cases and will be able to provide continuity of representation throughout an investigation and any subsequent proceedings.

We provide direct access to experienced criminal defence solicitors who are accustomed to dealing with serious, sensitive and high-profile investigations. Our advice is practical, discreet and focused on achieving the best possible outcome for each client.

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Facing a criminal allegation?

Get in touch today for a confidential discussion with a specialist criminal defence solicitor

Arrange a consultation
020 8242 4440

A strategic defence from the start

From the first moment of contact, we will protect your position, challenge the evidence and build the strongest possible defence on your behalf. Our solicitors have extensive experience in criminal litigation and a relentless desire to win.

Early advice can make all the difference

Discreet advice. Strategic defence.
Relentless representation.