Rights of a Detained Person in London
Even when one is held in custody of the police in London and loses his/her right to freedom, there are still some other rights that remain with him/her, besides the other legal rights that come into force. And although the police conveys some of those rights to the detained person, but what is unfortunate is we do not know them in detail and are unable to interpret them according to what the law actually means until a solicitor or lawyer comes and explains them to us.
But after going through this article, one thing is a sure-shot probability, and it is that in case you or somebody close to you ends up in a legal issue and a detention by the police is in order, you will already be acquainted with the rights of a detained person in London.
Instructions
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1
An official of the police at the police station is bound by the law to tell you why you have been held and what your rights as a detainee are.
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2
Getting free legal advice (from a solicitor) is one of the rights that a detainee enjoys under that law.
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3
Someone you know should be informed of your whereabouts.
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4
The police can arrange medical help if you feel ill.
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5
The police must follow the Codes of Practice which provide the legal powers awarded to the police, while also safeguarding the rights of an individual who has been detained.
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6
You can also be shown the rights that you enjoy under detention as a written document. These state the breaks for food that you will have, going to the toilet etc.
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7
The police is legally bound not to detain someone for more than 24 hours unless charged with a crime.
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8
Before asking any questions and interrogating you, the police officials must make you aware of the “Police caution” which will state the result of you not answering the questions asked. It is, ‘You do not have to say anything. However, it may harm your defense if you do not mention when questioned something which you later rely on in court. Anything you do say may be given in evidence.’
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9
If a suspect/offender is under 17, a parent, guardian or carer who is aged above 18 has to come to the police station.
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10
You will be asked for your permission to take ‘intimate samples’ (blood or urine) along with the need of permission from a senior police official.
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For more information regarding rights of a detained person, visit this website.
