What Happens When I Am Released Under Investigation?

What Happens When I am Released Under Investigation?

Criminal defence solicitors have to deal with a great number of things on a day-to-day basis. If you have been arrested, then you may want to know what happens next. If you are in the Blackburn, Lancashire or Manchester area then our solicitors will be able to help you. There are lots of different things that could happen when you are arrested, but this article covers what the term ‘released under investigation’ means.

What Does ‘Released Under Investigation’ Mean?

Being ‘released under investigation’ (RUI) refers to when you are suspected of a criminal offence, but that the investigation into your alleged criminal activity is ongoing. You can be released under investigation for alleged offences that are both minor and serious.

You may not have been charged or your case passed on to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and you are free to leave, but the police have not decided that you are innocent. You will still be under police investigation and suspected of a criminal offence. You may have to later return to the police. You are allowed to leave the police station, but the police can seize your personal property as evidence if they choose to.

How Long Can I Be Released Under Investigation?

Unfortunately, you will likely be told that you will be informed of the outcome of the police investigation ‘at some point in the future’. The investigation process actually has no maximum time limit, meaning that you could be kept waiting for weeks, months or years before you eventually discover the outcome. We understand that the threat of being prosecuted can be a difficult thing to live with on a day-to-day basis, and it can be hard to carry on a normal life. You may find that it is beneficial to seek legal advice, as you may be called to interview at any time.

What is the Difference Between Being Released Under Investigation and Being Released on Bail?

Being released under investigation means that the police believe that you may have committed a criminal offence but they do not have sufficient evidence to charge you. They also cannot hold you in custody while they carry out further investigations. If you have been arrested and interviewed under caution, then the police may decide to use the option of releasing you under conditional bail. The means that you can leave custody but you must abide by certain conditions, such as:

• Living at a predetermined address
• Avoiding contact with named people
• Abiding by a curfew

Unlike being released under investigation, being released on bail comes with a time limit of 28 days. For this reason, police are only likely to use it if they believe that you may harm the investigation in some way by obstructing the course of justice, committing another offence, or failing to turn up at court. You will be told to return to the police station on a set date.

If you have become subject to an investigation process, then it is a good idea to seek legal representation. When you are a suspect, to answer questions can sometimes harm your defence that you would rely on in court, so legal advice is crucial.

Here at Cartwright King, we have experienced specialists who will be able to help you throughout your experience. If you feel that you need help and advice, then get in touch today.