Duty Solicitor Scheme

3 APRIL 2025 16:30

1. Q) If I am arrested, do I have to pay for representation in police interview?
2. A) No, if you are arrested you are entitled to free and independent legal advice throughout. Once you are booked into custody, you will be given your Legal Rights. At this juncture you will be asked if you wish to instruct your own Solicitor, the Duty Solicitor or have no Solicitor. Should you wish to instruct your own or the Duty Solicitor, all fees in relation to representation at the Police station will be covered by the Legal Aid Agency.

1. Q) If I instruct the Duty Solicitor, who will represent me?
2. A) The Duty Solicitor Rota is created by the Legal Aid Agency. Local Solicitor firms will be allocated certain days on the Rota whereby they will be the Duty Solicitor for that day/s of the month. Should you wish to instruct the Duty Solicitor, a representative from the allotted Solicitor firm will represent you throughout your period in custody.

1. Q) Does the Duty Solicitor work for the Police?
2. A) No, Duty Solicitors work for independent Solicitor firms, they do not work for the Police. The Duty Solicitor will work in your best interests.

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