Career · 7 min read
What Does a Police Station Representative Do?
A police station representative advises clients in police custody or at voluntary interviews, reviews disclosure, takes instructions, advises on interview strategy, and attends interviews under firm supervision and within Code C rules under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984. This is the job I am training you for.
Core responsibilities
- Travel to police stations when a firm receives an instruction
- Consult privately with the client in custody or at interview
- Review initial disclosure and identify further lines of enquiry
- Take instructions on the allegation and client’s account
- Advise on interview strategy (answer, no comment, prepared statement, etc.)
- Attend the police interview and note key points
- Advise on bail, release under investigation (RUI), charge, or NFA
- Report back to the firm with attendance notes for the file
Working with firms and solicitors
Reps usually work for criminal defence firms or agencies on a rota or case-by-case basis. A duty solicitor or higher-grade supervisor may be contactable by phone. You are the firm’s representative on site but operate within firm protocols and LAA billing rules.
PACE 1984 and professional boundaries
Reps must apply the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 and Codes of Practice rather than improvise. That includes Code C custody rights, appropriate adults for juveniles and vulnerable adults, interpreter needs, and medical assessments where relevant. You do not instruct clients to lie or obstruct investigation; you ensure rights are respected and advice is informed.
Skills that matter in practice
- Clear communication under time pressure
- Quick reading of disclosure and custody records
- Calm client care in stressful situations
- Accurate attendance notes for the firm file and billing
- Willingness to work evenings, nights, and weekends
Frequently asked questions
Is a police station rep the same as a duty solicitor?
Not always. A duty solicitor is a qualified solicitor on the duty rota. An accredited rep is a different role, working under supervision, though career paths may later include qualification as a solicitor.
Do reps only work in custody suites?
Most work involves custody suites and voluntary interview suites, plus telephone advice in some firms. The exact mix depends on the firm and contract.
What skills do firms look for in new reps?
Clear communication under pressure, reliable attendance notes, willingness to work unsocial hours, and growing familiarity with Code C under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984.
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Prepare with PSR Train
PSR Train offers timed MCQs, module-based study, Code C–aligned content, and CIT-style scenarios to support your PSRAS preparation.
General training information for PSRAS candidates in England and Wales. It isn't legal advice, and it doesn't replace your firm's supervision or your assessment organisation's materials.