Police Investigations: Strategic Defence.
Strategic guidance for professionals under police investigation. Early intervention focus.
Chambers UK 2025, Crime
"He has such good judgement, really gets involved with the case and fights for his client's best interests."– Chambers UK, 2025
A police investigation into a professional, executive, or business owner is rarely straightforward. Beyond the immediate threat of criminal sanction, there are almost always parallel risks concerning professional registration, employment, and public reputation.
Early Intervention Focus
The standard approach of waiting for the police to conclude their investigation before constructing a defence is wholly inadequate for high-stakes cases. By the time a charging decision is made, the opportunity to influence the outcome has often passed. We prioritise early, proactive engagement with investigators to shape the narrative, manage disclosure, and expose weaknesses in the prosecution's hypotheses.
Digital Evidence as a Differentiator
Modern police investigations are overwhelmingly digital. From seized smartphones to corporate servers, the volume of data can be vast. Our strategy involves forensic analysis of digital evidence, often engaging independent experts to challenge police findings or uncover exculpatory material that investigators have overlooked or ignored.
Strategic Management of the Process
- Managing Arrests and Searches: Minimising disruption, protecting privileged material, and controlling immediate communications.
- The Voluntary Interview: Transforming the interview from an investigative tool for the police into an opportunity to place your defence on record securely.
- Bail and Release Under Investigation (RUI): Challenging onerous bail conditions that restrict your liberty or ability to work.
Related Situations
The Police Have Contacted Me
Immediate guidance on initial police contact and your strategic options before responding.
I Have Been Asked To Attend A Voluntary Interview
Understanding your rights and risks before attending a voluntary police interview.
A Search Warrant Has Been Executed
Immediate steps during and after a police search of your home or business.
My Phone Has Been Seized By Police
Digital evidence guidance when police have seized your phone or devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Suggested Reading
Defending Criminal Investigations: The Ultimate Guide
A comprehensive strategic guide to defending police and pre-charge criminal investigations in England and Wales: fifteen chapters from first allegation to final outcome.
Understanding Criminal Investigations: A Strategic Guide
The definitive guide to criminal defence in England and Wales for professionals. What to expect, how to protect yourself, and how strategic defence works.
The Voluntary Interview: A Strategic Guide
Everything you need to know before attending a voluntary police interview. Rights, risks, preparation and strategy.
The 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.
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 agree to attend an interview?
Should I answer questions in interview?
Should I seek pre-charge representation now?
expertise
Early Intervention Changes Outcomes
Engaging specialist counsel before formal proceedings begin consistently produces better outcomes for clients.
access
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.
confidentiality
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.