• If the Police are formally interviewing you they are not trying to help you. They are trying to get enough evidence to charge you.
• The aim of an interview is to get evidence for the actual Court hearing. It is not to let you have a chance to explain.
• The Police question people every day. They know how to question you in a way that might make you seem like you are uncertain of your answers or seem like you are lying.
• People almost never talk their way out of charges in an interview. The Police already have some idea of your version of events but they are formally interviewing you (which means they are looking at charging you).
• You can make a statement to the Police at any stage. Get proper legal advice before you talk to them.
• The Police will often tell you the penalty will be small if you admit it all straight away (think about their motives).
• They will often tell you that they will give you bail if you confess (If you have not offended before you normally will get bail). So talk to a lawyer before you say anything

DO

• Ask why you are being arrested
• Give your name and address
• Ask the police for a telephone so you can contact us (it is not an automatic right but you can request the use of a telephone)
• Ask for bail
• Be polite
  * If you are under 17 years of age you must have an adult you trust present.

DO NOT

• Answer any questions except to give your name and address
  (if you are the owner of a car or trailer you must give information which would lead to the driver if you are asked)
• Make any statements in writing
• Make any statements in words
• Sign anything
• Plead guilty to anything (even if they tell you to) unless you have spoken to a solicitor
• Resist arrest
• Be abusive or disorderly