Police Interviews in Sexual Offence Cases – How to Prepare and What to Say
Police Interviews in Sexual Offence Cases – How to Prepare and What to Say
If you have been accused of a sexual offence in the UK, you may be invited or compelled to attend a police interview under caution. Police interviews in sexual offence cases are a critical stage of the investigation — and what you say (or do not say) can have a lasting impact on your case.
At Makwanas, we have represented clients in hundreds of police interviews, ensuring their rights are protected and that they do not unintentionally damage their defence.
Book Your Free Discovery Call Today – Specialist legal advice before your police interview.
Understanding the Police Interview Process
A sexual offence police interview will:
- Take place under caution PACE Code C.
- Be audio or video recorded.
- Include questions about your relationship with the complainant, the alleged incident, and your whereabouts.
There are two main types of interviews:
- Voluntary Interview – You attend by arrangement and are free to leave, but it is still under caution.
- Interview Following Arrest – You are in police custody, and your liberty is restricted until release.
How to Prepare for a Sexual Offence Police Interview
- Instruct a Solicitor Immediately
You have the right to free and independent legal advice.
Your solicitor can obtain limited disclosure from police before interview. - Understand the Allegation
The police may not give every detail but will summarise the complaint.
Your solicitor will advise on how to address key points. - Gather Any Evidence
Messages, emails, social media posts, and witnesses can be important.
Avoid contacting the complainant directly.
What to Say in a Police Interview
There are three main options:
- Answer Questions – If advised it is in your interest to explain your version of events.
- No Comment – If the evidence is unclear or disclosure is limited, silence may be best.
- Prepared Statement – A written statement drafted with your solicitor, followed by “no comment” answers.
Your solicitor will recommend the safest option based on the evidence and circumstances.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Speaking to police without a solicitor present.
- Trying to “clear your name” without legal advice.
- Guessing details or timelines.
- Destroying or altering evidence.
How Makwanas Protects Your Rights in Interview
We can:
- ✅ Advise you on your legal options before answering any questions.
- ✅ Intervene if questioning becomes improper or unlawful.
- ✅ Ensure the interview process complies with PACE regulations.
- ✅ Begin building your defence immediately after the interview.
FAQs: Navigating Police Interviews in Sexual Offence Cases
1. Do I need a solicitor for a voluntary interview?
Yes — the stakes are just as high as in a post-arrest interview.
2. Will my silence be used against me?
In some circumstances, the court can draw adverse inferences, but only if you later raise a defence you could have mentioned earlier.
3. Can I see the evidence before interview?
Only a summary — full evidence is disclosed later if you are charged.
4. How long do interviews last?
It varies — often one to three hours, but complex cases can take longer.
5. Can I refuse to attend a voluntary interview?
Yes — but police may then choose to arrest you.
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