Custody Note Template for UK Police Station Work
A custody note should capture the attendance in a consistent order so nothing material is missed between the custody suite and the firm file. This page sets out a practical template structure, not a substitute for professional judgment.
Disclaimer: General workflow information for criminal defence professionals in England and Wales. Not legal advice on any case. Outcomes depend on the facts and applicable law.
The short answer
A useful custody note template covers: matter references (UFN, DSCC, custody number), attendance type, disclosure summary, client instructions, advice given, interview record, outcome, time recording, and follow-up actions.
Suggested sections
- References: client, station, offence summary, DSCC, custody number, instructing firm.
- Disclosure: what was received, reviewed, and outstanding.
- Consultation: instructions and advice before interview.
- Interview: start/end times, officers, summary of questions and answers.
- Outcome: charge, NFA, bail (date, station, conditions), or RUI.
- Time & fees: activity breakdown for legal aid or private billing.
Structured software such as Custody Note applies this layout automatically so you aren't rebuilding headings at 2am.