Being asked to attend an interview under caution often raises practical concerns, including how long the interview is likely to last and how disruptive it may be. The duration of an interview can vary significantly depending on the nature and seriousness of the allegation, the amount of evidence available and whether the interview is conducted voluntarily or following arrest. Understanding what to expect in advance can help reduce anxiety, allow for practical planning and ensure that you are properly prepared. Expert legal advice should always be obtained before attending any interview under caution.
Our specialist team of private criminal defence solicitors provide expert representation for anyone facing an interview under caution.
Typical Length of an Interview
There is no fixed time limit for an interview under caution. Some interviews last less than an hour, particularly where allegations are straightforward, narrow in scope or supported by limited evidence. Other interviews can last several hours, especially in more complex cases involving multiple allegations, historical matters, financial issues or extensive digital material such as phone downloads or online communications.
Interviews may include regular breaks and can be paused to allow legal advice to be taken during questioning. In certain cases, an interview may be stopped and continued at a later date or conducted over more than one session. The police are required to conduct interviews fairly and without oppression, and any unreasonable, repetitive or excessive questioning can be challenged by a solicitor.
Voluntary Interviews and Interviews Following Arrest
Where an interview is voluntary, the duration is often discussed in advance and arranged by appointment. These interviews are sometimes shorter and more focused, particularly where the police have identified specific issues they wish to address. However, a voluntary interview can still be lengthy and detailed, depending on the circumstances. Attending voluntarily does not reduce the seriousness of the process, and careful preparation remains essential.
If an interview takes place following arrest, strict time limits apply to how long a person can be detained in custody. Interviews conducted during detention may be longer and more intensive, particularly where the police are working within custody time limits and seeking to progress the investigation quickly. In these circumstances, interviews may be conducted alongside searches, forensic processes or further evidence gathering. Legal representation is especially important to ensure that detention is lawful and questioning remains fair.
Preparation and Strategy
The length of an interview often depends on how it is approached. A clear and considered strategy, agreed with a solicitor in advance, can help keep questioning focused and prevent unnecessary extensions. In some cases, providing a prepared statement, limiting answers to specific issues or giving no comment responses can significantly reduce the length of the interview and minimise risk.
Without legal advice, individuals may unintentionally prolong interviews by answering questions inconsistently, speculating or providing information that opens up further lines of enquiry. This can lead to additional questioning and increase the overall duration of the interview. Early preparation helps ensure that the interview is handled efficiently, proportionately and in your best interests.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
Interviews under caution are governed by the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 and its associated Codes of Practice. These rules regulate the conduct, length and conditions of interviews, including rest breaks, access to food and drink and the right to legal advice at all stages. Investigators are required to act fairly, lawfully and proportionately throughout the process.
How can we help
We provide expert representation for individuals attending interviews under caution. Our solicitors advise on what to expect, prepare clients thoroughly and attend interviews to protect their rights and interests. We intervene where questioning becomes inappropriate, challenge unfair practices and ensure that the interview process is conducted lawfully and properly from start to finish.
Initial Discussion
If you have been asked to attend an interview under caution and are concerned about how long it may take, it is essential that you obtain expert legal advice immediately. Contact James O’Hara today by calling +44 204 600 9900 or email us at info@culbertellis.com.
We can assist wherever you are based across England and Wales.
Accurate at the time of writing. This information is provided for general information purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal advice.
