- Vulnerable & Young Persons
PACE Safeguards
The Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) and its Codes of Practice set out the rules the police must follow when detaining and interviewing suspects. Breaches can render evidence inadmissible.
What is PACE?
PACE is the primary legislation governing police powers of stop and search, arrest, detention, and questioning. Its associated Codes of Practice (A–H) set out detailed procedures police must follow. Every person detained at a police station has rights under PACE — regardless of the offence alleged.
Key PACE rights for detainees
- The right to have someone informed of your arrest
- The right to consult a solicitor privately and in person
- The right to be told the reasons for your arrest and detention
- The right to see the Codes of Practice
- The right to an interpreter if you do not speak English
- The right to medical attention if needed
- The right to regular rest breaks and adequate food and water
Time limits on detention
- Initial detention: up to 24 hours without charge for most offences
- Superintendent's extension: up to 36 hours for indictable offences
- Magistrates' court warrant: up to a further 60 hours (total 96 hours) for serious offences
- Terrorism offences: different regime under the Terrorism Act 2000
Consequences of PACE breaches
Where police have breached PACE or the Codes of Practice, evidence obtained as a result may be excluded under s.78 PACE. We scrutinise police procedures in every case and will apply to exclude improperly obtained evidence — including confessions, identification evidence, and items found in unlawful searches.
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