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Police Interview Lawyers – Get Expert Police Interview Advice Now

Name: Doogue + George Defence Lawyers
Address: Level 5/221 Queen St, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, AU
Telephone: (03) 9670 5111
Price range: $$$

Updated July 16, 2020

Police Station Where Police Interviews are Conducted

Introduction

A police interview can be one of the most important moments in any criminal investigation. What you say or do not say can affect whether you face criminal charges, what evidence police have, and the outcome of your criminal case.

Before you speak to the police, get legal advice from a criminal lawyer who has handled thousands of interviews and knows how police questioning works.

At Doogue + George Defence Lawyers, our team includes accredited criminal law specialists who appear in the most serious matters across Australia. We act for clients from local police stations to major federal investigations.

Why You Need a Police Interview Lawyer in Melbourne

If you have been asked to attend a police station in Melbourne, speak to a police interview lawyer before answering any questions. Many people assume they can explain their side without legal help, but even small inconsistencies can be used as evidence against you.

An experienced police interview lawyer in Melbourne understands how Victoria Police conduct interviews. A criminal defence lawyer can advise whether to answer questions, provide a limited statement, or participate in a no-comment interview.

Getting early legal advice before you attend a police interview can make all the difference. Seek legal advice as soon as the police contact you.

Why a Police Interview Matters

A record of an interview is a formal, recorded conversation with the police about an alleged offence. It is not a friendly chat. It is evidence. Anything you say can be used against you in court.

Many people agree to be interviewed because they believe it will help explain their side. In reality, most interviews are conducted after police have already decided to charge. A statement made under pressure can be misunderstood or taken out of context.

What Happens in a Police Interview

Police interviews in Melbourne are usually audio or video-recorded at a police station. Recorded interviews form the basis of the interview process and follow a structured format:

Invitation or attendance at a police station: A police member or police officer may ask you to come in for a chat or formally request you attend.
The caution: Police must tell you that you do not have to say or do anything, but that anything you say may be used in evidence.
Questioning: The police officer will ask questions about the alleged offence.
Recording and verification: The record of the interview is recorded, and you may be asked to verify a transcript.
Post-interview outcome: You may be released, charged, or asked to attend court at a later court date.

Police may also interview after a police arrest. Whether you are arrested at home, at work, or in public, you have the right to contact an experienced lawyer before any formal questioning begins.

Your Rights During a Police Interview

Under Victorian criminal law, you have important legal rights during a police interview. Understanding your legal rights is essential:

Right to remain silent: You do not have to answer questions or make a comment. In many circumstances, a no-comment interview protects your position.
Right to legal advice: You can and should speak to a criminal defence lawyer before the interview. You are entitled to legal representation throughout the formal process.
Right to an interpreter: If English is not your first language, you can ask for a qualified interpreter.
Right to support: If the accused person is under 18 or has cognitive difficulties, a parent, guardian, or independent person must be present. Young people are entitled to additional protections under Victorian law.
Right to fair treatment: A police officer should not threaten, trick, or pressure you into speaking. If you feel intimidated, you can pause or stop the interview at any time.

Should You Answer Questions or Say “No Comment”?

There is no single answer. It depends on the circumstances of your criminal case. Sometimes it is strategically wise to remain silent. In other circumstances, providing a short statement may assist in showing cooperation.

Your criminal defence lawyer will consider:

What evidence police already have, including witness statements,
Whether you are likely to face criminal charges regardless, and
How your answers might affect future defence options.

Getting advice before you speak is crucial. Once something is recorded in a record of interview, it cannot be undone. An experienced criminal defence lawyer can explain the legal consequences of each approach and advise on the best path forward.

How Doogue + George Can Help

We have represented clients in over 47,000 criminal cases, from summary offences to major homicide, corruption, and corporate investigations. Our accredited criminal law specialists are recognised by Best Lawyers and Doyle’s Guide as pre-eminent in criminal defence.

We can:

Advise you immediately by phone before you attend a police station,
Attend the police interview with you across Melbourne,
Protect your rights during questioning, and
Assist with any subsequent criminal charges, bail applications, or court processes.

Whether you are a suspect facing police arrest or a witness asked to attend a police interview, we address your concerns and help you achieve the best possible outcome. Contact a criminal lawyer today.

Call (03) 9670 5111 or contact us online.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a record of interview?

A record of an interview is a formal, recorded conversation between police and a suspect or person suspected of a criminal offence. It becomes part of the evidence in your criminal case and can be used in court.

Do I have to take part in a police interview?

No. You have the right to decline an interview or answer "no comment" to police questions. Whether you attend voluntarily or after arrest, always seek advice from an experienced criminal defence lawyer before deciding.

Will refusing to answer make me look guilty?

No. Exercising your right to silence cannot be used as evidence of guilt. Your criminal defence lawyer can advise on the best approach for your circumstances.

Can I have a lawyer present?

Yes. You are entitled to speak with and be represented by a lawyer before or during a police interview. Our police interview lawyers attend interviews in Melbourne.

How long does a police interview take?

Interviews can last from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the complexity of the matter.

Can I stop an interview once it starts?

Yes. You can pause or stop at any time to seek advice or if you feel unwell or intimidated. Police must respect this right.

What if I am under 18 or have an intellectual disability?

A parent, guardian, or independent person must be present during the police interview. This is a legal requirement under Victorian law.

Can I be charged without being interviewed?

Yes. Police can charge a person with a criminal offence without conducting a record of the interview. A suspect may face arrest and criminal charges without a prior interview.

What happens after the interview?

You may be released, charged with indictable offences or driving offences, or contacted later. Your lawyer will guide you through the next steps and attend court if required.

Why Choose Doogue + George

Victoria’s leading criminal defence team
LIV-Accredited Specialists in criminal law
Offices across Melbourne with highly trained, experienced criminal lawyers
Represented clients in matters involving stolen goods, assaults, drug charges, and fraud
Trusted by professionals, companies, and individuals
Recognised as pre-eminent by Doyle’s Guide, committed to achieving a positive outcome

When you are under investigation, experience matters. Speak directly to our experienced criminal lawyers for expert police interview advice now. Call (03) 9670 5111 or contact us online.

Last Updated: 28 March 2026

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

“This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Please consult a qualified criminal defence lawyer before making any decisions regarding your matter”