AC 1.4

• What rights do suspects, victims, and witnesses have in a criminal investigation?

  They have specific rights during the investigation and court proceedings.
• What powers do police have regarding suspects?

  Police have the rights to stop and search and to arrest a person.
• What is the purpose of a 'stop and account' by police officers?

  It allows officers to ask individuals to explain their actions and presence in public places.
• How many different powers of stop and search do police have?

  Police have 19 different powers of stop and search.
• What must police ensure when using stop and search powers?

  They must use these powers fairly, responsibly, and without discrimination.
• Under what conditions can police arrest a suspect without a warrant?

  Police can arrest if the suspect is involved in committing an offence and the officer believes the arrest is necessary.
• What must an officer inform you of when you are arrested?

  The officer must tell you that you are being arrested, what for, and why the arrest is necessary.
• Who is responsible for the care of arrestees at a police station?

  The custody officer, who is an officer of the rank of sergeant or above, is responsible.
• What rights do you have at the police station after being arrested?

  You have the right to free legal advice and to have someone informed of your arrest.
• What must police do if you are under 18 or a vulnerable adult when arrested?

  They must try to contact your parent or carer and find an appropriate adult to assist you.
• What is the right to silence during police questioning?

  You do not have to answer police questions, but there may be consequences for not doing so.
• What must police explain to you regarding the right to silence?

  They must explain that not mentioning something during questioning can harm your defense later in court.
• What must be done with all police interviews?

  All interviews must be tape recorded.
• What is your right to legal advice during police questioning?

  You have the right to free legal advice and to have a solicitor present during your interview.
• How long can police delay questioning after you request legal advice?

  In serious cases, police can delay questioning for up to 36 hours.
• What rights do police have regarding taking fingerprints and photographs?

  Police can take photographs, fingerprints, and DNA samples without your permission.
• What is required for police to take blood or urine samples?

  They need both your permission and the authority of a senior police officer.
• What can you request regarding your information stored in police databases?

  You can ask for your information to be removed if an offence no longer exists or if the arrest was unlawful.
• How long can police hold you in custody without charge?

  Police can hold you for up to 24 hours without charge.
• What is the maximum time police can hold you for indictable offences?

  For indictable offences, you can be held for up to 36 hours without charge.
• Under what circumstances can police detain you for a further 96 hours?

  Police can detain you for a further 96 hours with the approval of a magistrate.
• What is police bail?

  Police bail is the temporary release of a suspect when there is not enough evidence to charge them.
• What is conditional bail?

  Conditional bail may impose restrictions, such as curfews or staying away from certain people or places.
• What rights do you have if convicted of an offence?

  You have certain rights of appeal depending on the type of court and the nature of the appeal.
• What is the Victim Code?


  The Victim Code sets out the rights of victims in relation to criminal investigations and court processes.
• What must police provide to victims when reporting a crime?

  Police must provide a written crime reference number and contact details for the officer handling the case.
• What support can victims request during an investigation?

  Victims can request support from victim support organizations and can write a Victim Personal Statement.
• What updates must police provide to victims during an investigation?

  Police must inform victims when a suspect is arrested, charged, released on bail, or given a caution.
• What is the right to privacy for victims during police investigations?

  Police must seek the victim's permission before sharing information with the media.
• What rights do victims have during trials?

  Victims have the right to be informed about the trial schedule and to have support during the trial.
• What can victims claim if the crime was violent?

  Victims can claim compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).
• What is restorative justice?


  Restorative justice aims to repair the harm caused by the offence and may allow victims to meet the offender.
• Who qualifies as a vulnerable victim?

  Vulnerable victims include those under 18, with mental or physical disabilities, or close relatives of a crime victim.
• What extra support do vulnerable victims receive?


  They receive information more quickly, specialist advice, and may be assigned a Family Liaison Officer.
• What rights do witnesses have in criminal cases?

  Witnesses have rights outlined in the Witness Charter, including a main point of contact and information about the court process.
• What does the Witness Charter provide for witnesses?

  The Witness Charter provides standards of care and support for witnesses throughout the legal process.
• What special measures are available for vulnerable and intimidated witnesses?

  Special measures include giving evidence from behind a screen or via live video link, and help from a communications specialist.
• Who qualifies as a vulnerable witness?

  A vulnerable witness includes anyone aged under 18 and those with mental or physical disabilities.
• What defines an intimidated witness?


  An intimidated witness includes victims of sexual offences or human trafficking, and those fearful of testifying.
• What is the role of a Family Liaison Officer for vulnerable victims?

  A Family Liaison Officer provides support and information to close relatives of victims.