Why solicitors switch to Custody Note
Structured digital notes can reduce retyping, missed sections, and file delays compared with paper or ad hoc Word templates. Individual results vary: this is a workflow comparison, not a guarantee of time or cost savings.
Custody Note is software for criminal defence professionals. It does not provide legal advice and doesn't guarantee billing, audit, or compliance outcomes.
Less retyping
Structured capture at the station instead of typing up later
Consistent sections
Same disclosure, advice, and outcome structure every attendance
Pro £9.99/mo
Free during beta
The problem with paper
- You finish a 4-hour attendance at 2am. Your handwritten notes need typing up before the admin team can file them.
- Illegible scribbles mean you second-guess what you meant when you bill or brief counsel days later.
- Sections get skipped under pressure, then you're chasing details from memory or the client.
- The file sits in your bag until you're back at a desk, so billing and case updates lag by days.
- Different fee earners use different layouts, so the office never gets a consistent record.
What changes with Custody Note
Structured sections
Nothing gets missed: prompts match what custody work actually needs.
Time-stamped records
Support accurate billing and a clear timeline when you need one.
PDF export
Export a structured PDF for firm files when you're ready, subject to your own review.
Works offline
Works even in underground custody suites with no signal.
Encrypted local storage + optional cloud backup
Your data stays under your control, with backup when you want it.
A typical attendance, before and after
Before (paper)
- Attend
- Scribble notes
- Drive to office or home
- Type up notes
- Email to office
- Admin files it
- Often a 2–3 day delay
After (Custody Note)
- Attend
- Capture in structured form
- Export PDF
- Email from station
- File updated the same day
Who it's for
- Duty solicitors on the rota
- Freelance police station representatives
- Criminal defence firms wanting consistency across fee earners
- Accredited reps building their practice
Download free
Free during beta, no card needed. Try structured notes on your next attendance.