The police have enormous power in our society, but with... Show more
Criminology1,042 views·Updated May 30, 2026·2 pagesUnderstanding Criminology Unit 3 - AC:1.4 Notes
Dominic @dom.j4
1
of 2
Police Powers and Suspect Rights
Police can arrest you without a warrant if they have reasonable grounds to believe you've committed or are about to commit a crime. The moment you're arrested, they must read you the official police caution - that familiar "you do not have to say anything" warning you've heard on TV shows.
You'll typically be held for up to 24 hours, though this can extend to 36 hours for serious crimes, or even 96 hours with court approval. Don't panic though - you've got significant rights that protect you during this time.
Your key rights as a suspect include free legal advice (and police can't question you until your solicitor arrives), medical help if needed, and the right to tell someone where you are. If you're under 18, an appropriate adult like a parent must be present during questioning.
Important: While you have the right to remain silent, this can actually work against you in court if you later rely on information you didn't mention during questioning.
The Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) creates these protections, ensuring interviews are recorded and preventing police from making false statements about what you've said.
2
of 2
Rights of Victims and Witnesses
If you're ever a crime victim, you're entitled to proper support from the moment you report it. Police must give you a unique crime reference number, explain what happens next, and arrange for victim support to contact you within two days.
You'll receive updates within five days about whether suspects have been arrested, charged, or released. If you're a victim of rape or sexual assault, your identity is legally protected from public disclosure. After any trial, you can make a victim impact statement in court and receive compensation for injuries or property damage through schemes like CICA (Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority).
Witnesses have their own protections under the Witness Charter (2013). If you're summoned to court, you legally must attend, but you'll get travel expenses and compensation for lost work time. The system recognises that giving evidence can be daunting, so vulnerable witnesses get extra support.
Key point: Both victims and witnesses have dedicated care officers who provide updates and support throughout the legal process.
Providing false testimony carries serious consequences - potentially up to five years in prison. However, you can refuse to testify in certain circumstances, particularly if it would incriminate yourself or close family members.
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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
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Criminology1,042 views·Updated May 30, 2026·2 pagesUnderstanding Criminology Unit 3 - AC:1.4 Notes
Dominic @dom.j4
The police have enormous power in our society, but with that comes strict rules about how they must treat suspects, victims, and witnesses. Understanding these rights isn't just academic - it's knowledge that could genuinely matter if you ever find... Show more
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Police Powers and Suspect Rights
Police can arrest you without a warrant if they have reasonable grounds to believe you've committed or are about to commit a crime. The moment you're arrested, they must read you the official police caution - that familiar "you do not have to say anything" warning you've heard on TV shows.
You'll typically be held for up to 24 hours, though this can extend to 36 hours for serious crimes, or even 96 hours with court approval. Don't panic though - you've got significant rights that protect you during this time.
Your key rights as a suspect include free legal advice (and police can't question you until your solicitor arrives), medical help if needed, and the right to tell someone where you are. If you're under 18, an appropriate adult like a parent must be present during questioning.
Important: While you have the right to remain silent, this can actually work against you in court if you later rely on information you didn't mention during questioning.
The Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) creates these protections, ensuring interviews are recorded and preventing police from making false statements about what you've said.
2
of 2Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
Rights of Victims and Witnesses
If you're ever a crime victim, you're entitled to proper support from the moment you report it. Police must give you a unique crime reference number, explain what happens next, and arrange for victim support to contact you within two days.
You'll receive updates within five days about whether suspects have been arrested, charged, or released. If you're a victim of rape or sexual assault, your identity is legally protected from public disclosure. After any trial, you can make a victim impact statement in court and receive compensation for injuries or property damage through schemes like CICA (Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority).
Witnesses have their own protections under the Witness Charter (2013). If you're summoned to court, you legally must attend, but you'll get travel expenses and compensation for lost work time. The system recognises that giving evidence can be daunting, so vulnerable witnesses get extra support.
Key point: Both victims and witnesses have dedicated care officers who provide updates and support throughout the legal process.
Providing false testimony carries serious consequences - potentially up to five years in prison. However, you can refuse to testify in certain circumstances, particularly if it would incriminate yourself or close family members.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Most popular content: Criminology
9Most popular content in Criminology
9Most popular content
9Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.6/5App Store
4.7/5Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan SiOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha KlichAndroid user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
AnnaiOS user