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 the supervision of a criminal defence firm and within PACE rules.
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. The rep is the firm’s representative on site but operates within firm protocols and LAA billing rules.
PACE and professional boundaries
Reps must apply PACE and Codes of Practice — not improvise. That includes custody rights, appropriate adults for juveniles and vulnerable adults, interpreter needs, and medical assessments where relevant. Reps do not instruct clients to lie or obstruct investigation; they 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.
Related guides
Prepare with PSR Train
PSR Train offers timed MCQs, module-based study, PACE-aligned content, and CIT-style scenarios to support your PSRAS preparation. Training guidance only — completion does not confer accreditation.
This guide is general training information for PSRAS candidates in England and Wales. It is not legal advice and does not replace firm supervision, official assessment materials, or authorised assessment organisations.