Question 1

If I answer no comment, will I definitely be charged?

Accepted Answer

No. The police must have sufficient evidence to charge you and this cannot be purely based on a person not answering questions.

Question 2

Will I get my computer/tablet/phone back?

Accepted Answer

The nature of cyber crime cases is that evidence is often held on electronic devices. This can mean that there may be delays in returning devices. Devices may not be returned if they have material which is private, illegal or can be used to commit fraud. If items belong to friends, family or an employer, investigators may agree to release them early or prioritise them for being screened early.

Question 3

Will an arrest show up on my DBS?

Accepted Answer

An arrest will not usually show up on a basic or standard DBS check as these are usually limited to information concerning convictions, cautions or reprimands.

However, an enhanced, or enhanced with barred lists, DBS check may also show 'any other information held'. This may include details of times a person has been arrested, even if no charges were brought.

Question 4

I am on bail. Can I still travel abroad?

Accepted Answer

As long as there is nothing in your bail conditons which stops you from leaving the country, you should be able to travel abroad. However, always speak with your lawyers beforehand to check.

Question 5

How long will the process take?

Accepted Answer

Criminal investigations can take days, more likely weeks, and in some cases months or longer. The police and CPS are managing the timetable because they make the decision whether to continue with the case or not. Being proactive with them can assist in the speed of their investigation but this is no guarantee. They are public bodies which are under resourced and sadly also often poorly managed.

The Pre-charge stage of your case is extremely important - our specialist lawyers are here to make sure that you get the right result.

Recent success stories

Murder linked to Mark Duggan's Death - Not Guilty

Hookway 'Bail Crisis' Case - Dropped by Home Office

Contact information

Multiple locations

Call us

Office openings

Send us a confidential message