Urgent Strategic Guidance: Your position is time-sensitive. Early intervention changes outcomes.
I have been released under investigation (RUI)
You have been interviewed or arrested and released without bail conditions. The investigation is continuing.
What You Must Do Now
The following guidance reflects the most critical strategic decisions at this stage of an investigation.
Strategic Action 1
Released under investigation does not mean the matter has concluded
Being released under investigation (RUI) without bail conditions can feel like a resolution. It is not. The investigation continues and may result in charge weeks, months, or years later.
Maintain your legal representation. Conduct a regular review of the regulatory, employment, and reputational implications of the ongoing investigation. Continue to preserve all relevant records.
Do not assume the matter has concluded. Do not discuss the investigation with colleagues, clients, or associates. Do not take any action that could be interpreted as interfering with the investigation.
Why this matters
The period of RUI is often when professionals make their most damaging mistakes: resuming normal conduct, discussing the matter with colleagues, or assuming the police have lost interest. Charges often follow with little warning.
This guidance is general. The appropriate strategy depends on the specific circumstances of your investigation.
The Most Common Mistakes At This Stage
The following mistakes are made repeatedly by people in your position, often with serious consequences.
- 01
Assuming the matter has concluded
- 02
Reducing or ending legal representation
- 03
Discussing the matter with colleagues
Read More About Your Situation
Detailed strategic guidance on the specific aspects of your situation.
How Craig MacKenzie Can Help
The following services are directly relevant to your situation.
Police Investigations
Strategic defence advice from the first moment of police contact.
Learn morePre-Charge Representation
Strategic intervention before the Crown Prosecution Service makes a charging decision.
Learn morePrivate Defence
Strategic private criminal defence for professionals and business owners facing high-stakes allegations.
Learn moreThe wider picture
What else could this affect?
An investigation rarely stays in one place. These are the areas that, depending on the facts, may also need to be considered.
Your liberty
A criminal investigation can carry the risk of arrest, bail conditions or, ultimately, prosecution; the position should be assessed early.
Your record
The outcome of an investigation may affect whether a criminal record arises, which can have consequences that reach well beyond the case itself.
Your reputation
An allegation, even one that is never charged, can create reputational exposure that benefits from a considered, strategic approach.
Your employer
An employer may become aware of, or need to consider, the allegation; the timing and approach can matter a great deal.
Your regulator or professional body
A regulator or governing body may take an interest in the same facts, and whether or when to engage should be considered with advice.
Your career
An allegation can raise longer-term career questions; early advice can help identify how to protect your position.
Before you act
The decision you may be facing next
People in your position often face one of these decisions before anything else. Each one is best made with advice, not under pressure.
Should I seek pre-charge representation now?
Should I challenge my bail conditions?
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Direct Partner Access
Your case is led personally by Craig MacKenzie. You have direct access to your solicitor, with all key decisions, strategy and advice provided at partner level. Behind the scenes, Craig is supported by an experienced legal team to ensure your case is progressed efficiently without compromising on the quality of advice.
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Professional Confidentiality
Enquiries and instructions are handled with the professional confidentiality obligations that apply to solicitors. Client matters are not discussed with third parties.
Do You Require Advice About Your Circumstances?
This material provides general information and is not a substitute for advice about a specific investigation or case.
Craig provides legal services exclusively through Forbes Solicitors. To make an initial enquiry, contact Craig at:
craig.mackenzie@forbessolicitors.co.uk
An enquiry does not constitute an instruction. Forbes Solicitors must confirm in writing that it has accepted the matter before any solicitor–client relationship arises.