What happens immediately after I am arrested?

When you are arrested, the officer must tell you that you are under arrest, specify the offence, and read the standard caution. This process is governed by PACE Code G. You should note the time of arrest and record the officer's name and collar number for your records.

What are my rights when I arrive at the police station?

At the custody desk, the Custody Sergeant authorises your detention. You have the right to free legal advice, to have someone notified of your arrest, and to consult the PACE Codes of Practice, specifically Code C. It is recommended to always ask for the duty solicitor, as this service is free regardless of your financial means.

Is legal advice free and how does it help?

You are entitled to free legal advice, which can be provided in person or by phone. The solicitor will advise you on your interview strategy, such as whether to answer questions, make no comment, or provide a prepared statement. You should not waive your right to legal advice without first speaking to a solicitor.

What are the possible outcomes after the interview?

The possible outcomes include no further action, bail with conditions, release under investigation, or being charged and bailed to court. The duration of custody can range from hours to 96 hours, with extensions possible. The specific outcome depends on the evidence and the police decision.

All Legal Journeys

Criminal Law

England & Wales

5 stages

Hours to 96 hours (with extensions)

Reviewed 2026-05-22

Arrest to police interview journey

Step-by-step from arrest through PACE rights, custody, interview, to release or charge.

This page mainly applies to England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland may have different rules — check the jurisdiction before relying on this information.

Who Uses This Journey

Anyone arrested or attending a voluntary interview at a police station.

Stage-by-Stage Timeline

Arrest and caution

Officer must tell you you're under arrest, the offence, and the standard caution. PACE Code G governs.

Evidence Needed

Note time of arrest
Officer's name and collar number

Custody desk and rights

Custody Sergeant authorises detention. You have the right to free legal advice, to have someone notified, and to consult Codes of Practice (PACE Code C).

Speak to a solicitor

Free consultation (in person or by phone). Solicitor advises on the interview strategy: answer, no comment, or prepared statement.

Interview

Recorded under caution. Adverse inferences may be drawn from silence (s.34 CJPOA 1994) — solicitor will advise.

Release or charge

Possible outcomes: NFA, bail with conditions, released under investigation (RUI), or charged and bailed to court.

Possible Outcomes

No further action
Bailed
Released under investigation
Charged

Official Sources

PACE Codes of Practice

Know Your Rights

Arrested

Frequently asked questions

What happens immediately after I am arrested?: When you are arrested, the officer must tell you that you are under arrest, specify the offence, and read the standard caution. This process is governed by PACE Code G. You should note the time of arrest and record the officer's name and collar number for your records.
What are my rights when I arrive at the police station?: At the custody desk, the Custody Sergeant authorises your detention. You have the right to free legal advice, to have someone notified of your arrest, and to consult the PACE Codes of Practice, specifically Code C. It is recommended to always ask for the duty solicitor, as this service is free regardless of your financial means.
Is legal advice free and how does it help?: You are entitled to free legal advice, which can be provided in person or by phone. The solicitor will advise you on your interview strategy, such as whether to answer questions, make no comment, or provide a prepared statement. You should not waive your right to legal advice without first speaking to a solicitor.
What are the possible outcomes after the interview?: The possible outcomes include no further action, bail with conditions, release under investigation, or being charged and bailed to court. The duration of custody can range from hours to 96 hours, with extensions possible. The specific outcome depends on the evidence and the police decision.