If we believe you have committed an offence, we may invite you into the Benefits, Investigations and Welfare Rights Services office for an Interview Under Caution.
This will be a taped interview, carried out in accordance with the Police and Criminal Evidence Act. Your rights will be explained in a leaflet sent to you beforehand, as well as during the interview itself.
The interview can seem quite daunting, but this is because we are required by law to make sure you are aware of all your rights. The person interviewing you will try to make you as comfortable as possible during the interview and will treat you fairly. They want to listen to what you have to say.
You have the following rights:
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not to say anything (although if you later say something in court that you did not mention during your interview, the court may look less favourably at that information)
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to obtain legal advice
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to leave at any time, if you wish
You may also:
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have somebody independent translate for you if English is not your first language
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have somebody help you if you need assistance understanding the documents
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bring a legal representative
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bring a friend or relative unconnected to the investigation into the interview with you for support (although they will not be expected to answer questions)
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request a copy of the tape after the interview has finished.
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ask for a break if you need one
PLEASE NOTE:~ The Council does not provide child care facilities and will not interview you if you have a child with you at the time of the interview.
Our officers are trained to deal with you as sympathetically as possible, although they will need to ask you questions about a suspected offence. Remember, this interview is your opportunity to explain what has happened.
If you cannot attend a booked interview, it is important to telephone the contact number on your appointment letter. Not attending the interview will not make the problem go away. You may end up in court, even if you do not attend an interview.
Last Modified: Tuesday 20 March 2012