When Will I Find Out If I'm Being Charged?

What Does This Mean for Me?

After a police interview, several outcomes are possible:

No Further Action (NFA) is taken, and the matter comes to an end.

• You are charged with an offence.

• You are released on police bail and required to return to the police station at a later date.

• You are released under investigation while the police continue their enquiries.

• You may be asked to attend a further interview.

The outcome will depend on the evidence available, whether further investigation is required, and whether the police believe there is sufficient evidence to make a charging decision.

What Happens After Being Arrested?

If you are arrested on suspicion of a criminal offence, you will usually be taken to a police station where you may be interviewed under caution.

You have the right to free and independent legal advice. Obtaining legal representation is strongly recommended, as decisions made during a police interview can have a significant impact on the investigation and any future court proceedings.

Following interview, the police will decide whether:

• To take no further action.

• To release you on police bail.

• To release you under investigation.

• To charge you with an offence.

What Happens After a Police Interview?

Once your interview has concluded, the police will review the evidence available and decide on the next steps.

In straightforward cases, a charging decision may be made immediately. However, where officers need to obtain additional evidence, review digital devices, analyse forensic material, or speak to further witnesses, the investigation may continue after your release.

You may therefore be:

• Charged immediately

• Released on police bail

• Released under investigation

• Informed that no further action will be taken

What Happens When Released Under Investigation?

Being released under investigation means the police investigation remains ongoing, but you are not required to return to the police station on a specified date and are not usually subject to bail conditions.

The police may continue to:

• Examine mobile phones, computers, and other digital devices

• Obtain forensic evidence

• Gather witness statements

• Pursue additional lines of enquiry

Once the investigation is complete, you will be informed whether:

• You are being charged

• No further action will be taken

• Further enquiries are required

How Long Does It Normally Take to Find Out If I'm Being Charged?

There is no standard timeframe

The time required depends on factors such as:

• The seriousness of the allegation

• The amount of evidence involved

• Whether forensic examinations are needed

• Whether digital devices require analysis

• Whether additional witness evidence must be obtained

Some investigations conclude within days or weeks. Others can take several months, particularly where the case is complex or significant volumes of evidence need to be reviewed.

How Long Can Police Bail Last?

If you are released on pre-charge bail, the initial bail period can last up to three months.

Further extensions may be authorised:

• Up to 6 months with Inspector approval

• Up to 9 months with Superintendent approval

• Beyond 9 months through an application to the Magistrates' Court

When you return to answer bail, the police may charge you, extend your bail, release you under investigation, take no further action, or request a further interview.

Does Being Released Under Investigation Mean I Will Be Charged?

No.

Being released under investigation does not mean that you will be charged. It simply means the police have not yet reached a final decision and require more time to investigate the allegation.

Many investigations end with no further action being taken. Others may result in charges being brought. The fact that an investigation remains ongoing should not be viewed as an indication of the outcome.

Should I Be Concerned About Delays?

Long periods of uncertainty can understandably cause anxiety and stress.

However, delays are often the result of investigative processes rather than an indication that your case has become more serious. Forensic examinations, digital downloads, witness enquiries, and evidence reviews can all take considerable time to complete.

While waiting for a decision can be frustrating, a delay alone does not mean that you are more likely to be charged.

How Can a Solicitor Help?

At Forbes Solicitors, our experienced Criminal Defence team provides expert legal advice and representation at every stage of a criminal case. Whether you are being investigated, have been arrested, released on bail, released under investigation, or charged with an offence, we can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process.

We provide clear, practical advice tailored to your circumstances and work to protect your interests from the outset. Our team is here to support you, answer your questions, and provide expert representation when you need it most.

What Should I Do Now?

If you have been arrested, interviewed, released on bail, or released under investigation, it is important to obtain legal advice as early as possible.

You should:

• Keep any bail appointments or comply with any conditions

• Retain any documents provided by the police

• Avoid discussing the allegation with others unless advised otherwise

• Stay in contact with your solicitor for updates and guidance

• Seek advice promptly if contacted again by the police

Although the waiting period can be difficult, obtaining specialist legal advice can help you understand your position and make informed decisions while the investigation continues.

Contact our experienced Criminal Defence team for clear guidance, practical support, and expert representation tailored to your circumstances on 0800 988 5130.