1. Advising Clients, including Vulnerable Clients, about the Procedure at Processes and the Police Station Flashcards
(262 cards)
What is an indictable offence?
An offence that warrants a trial by jury.
What are the ranks of police in order?
Superintendent, Inspector, Sergeant.
What powers does a Superintendent have?
Authorise continued detention, delay access to legal advice.
What powers does an Inspector have?
Delay right to contact a friend or relative, review detention, conduct identification procedures.
What powers does a Sergeant have?
Authorise detention, supervise welfare, open up custody record, give suspect their rights, authorise search, determine whether to charge/release on bail/keep in custody.
What is the general rule for dealing with suspects at the police station?
Deal with them expeditiously and release them as soon as the need for detention no longer applies.
What is the role of a Custody Officer?
Ensure a suspect’s legal rights are complied with and their welfare.
What are the responsibilities of a Custody Officer?
Decide whether there is sufficient evidence to charge the detainee, authorise detention, inform the detainee of their rights.
What is a Custody Record?
A record of everything that has happened and been said to the detainee, which the solicitor has the right to consult.
What are the steps that must happen upon arrival at the police station?
Suspect brought before the custody officer, custody record opened, suspect informed of their rights, custody officer determines if there is sufficient evidence to charge, authorise search of suspect.
Is there a requirement to contact an Appropriate Adult if the suspect is over 18?
No.
What is bail?
Granted when there is not sufficient evidence to charge a suspect immediately.
What are the grounds for detention?
Sufficient evidence to charge and risk of absconding, interfering with witnesses, or committing further offences.
What is the maximum initial detention period without charge?
24 hours.
detention clock begins to run from the time a person is arrested if they have arrived at the police station as a volunteer
What is the maximum detention period with authorization from a Superintendent?
36 hours.
What is the maximum detention period with authorization from a Magistrate?
96 hours.
What is the purpose of a police interview?
To gather evidence and information from the suspect.
What is the caution?
A statement read to the suspect before the interview, informing them of their right to remain silent and that anything they say may be used against them in court.
What is the role of the solicitor during a police interview?
To advise the suspect on their legal rights and provide assistance during the interview.
What is the purpose of conducting identification procedures?
To establish if the suspect can be identified by witnesses or victims of the crime.
Why is detaining a suspect necessary?
Preservation of evidence or obtaining evidence by questioning.
What are the conditions of detention?
Adequate heating, cleaning, ventilation, lighting, bedding, sanitary facilities, meals, and regular visits.
What must the custody officer do if the suspect is injured or needs medical attention?
Make arrangements for medical care.
What is the right to legal advice?
The right to receive free legal advice at the police station.