Police Investigations - A Guide for Family Lawyers

Introduction

What happens when the police are informed of an allegation of a crime within a family?

This virtual classroom seminar looks at the steps the police take to gather evidence and liaise with the Crown Prosecution Service to bring charges against an offender in cases of domestic violence, child neglect, homicide and sex offences.

Legislation changes in 2021 and 2024 have greatly widened the list of people who are victims for the purposes of such offences. The law has also now granted clear rights to victims about who may demand access to their digital devices and when.

Designed for family lawyers, this session will help you deal with the consequences of a criminal investigation for a client and understand how the police investigate the allegations so you can advise on the consequences.

What You Will Learn

This live and interactive course will cover the following:

• Who is a victim of crime in these cases?
• Investigatory powers-arrest, evidence gathering, statement-taking, searches, etc
• Obtaining material from third parties e.g. social services, probation, schools or the NHS
• What are a victim's rights if digital material is sought from them? Who might see such material and when?
• Interviewing vulnerable witnesses
• Pre- charge bail - what is it? How long does it last? Who can amend or cancel it? What happens if a suspect breaches it?
• How does the CPS decide to prosecute?
• What is an ‘evidence-led’ prosecution and how does it work?
• Protections for witnesses at court
• Victim impact statements
• Orders that can be made. Restraining Orders on conviction or acquittal to protect victims - should one be made?

Recording of live sessions: Soon after the Learn Live session has taken place you will be able to go back and access the recording - should you wish to revisit the material discussed.