44Right to consultation with solicitorS
(1)A person who is in police custody has the right to have a private consultation with a solicitor at any time.
(2)In exceptional circumstances, the person's exercise of the right under subsection (1) may be delayed so far as that is necessary in the interests of—
(a)the investigation or the prevention of crime, or
(b)the apprehension of offenders.
(3)A decision to delay the person's exercise of the right under subsection (1) may be taken only by a constable who—
(a)is of the rank of sergeant or above, and
(b)has not been involved in the investigation in connection with which the person is in custody.
(4)In subsection (1), “consultation” means consultation by such method as may be appropriate in the circumstances and includes (for example) consultation by telephone.
Commencement Information
I1S. 44 in force at 25.1.2018 by S.S.I. 2017/345, art. 3, sch. (with art. 4)