Rights for persons detained under the Terrorism Act 2000

This document provides important information about your rights under the law in Scotland when you are detained at the police station under the Terrorism Act 2000. It is not legal advice.


Letter of Rights for persons detained under the Terrorism Act 2000

This leaflet gives you important information about your rights under the law in Scotland when you are in custody at the police station. This document tells you about your main rights on detention. It is not legal advice and it does not tell you about all of your rights. You should seek your own independent legal advice.

Please read this information as soon as possible. It will help you to make decisions while you are at the police station. Please ask the police to explain anything you do not understand in this leaflet, if you want an easy-read copy or a translation.

Remember your rights:

  • You have the right to know why the police are holding you in custody.
  • You have the right to have a solicitor told that you are at the police station. This is free.
  • You have the right to have someone else who may be interested in your welfare told you are at the police. For example, this may be a family member, carer or a friend.
  • You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer any questions the police ask you. BUT you do have to give your name, address, date of birth, where you were born and your nationality.
  • You have the right to speak to a solicitor without delay in private before the police ask you questions. You can also speak to a solicitor at any time when the police are asking you questions.
  • If you are under 16, or under 18 and subject to a compulsory supervision order, you also have the right to be visited by your parent or guardian at the police station.
  • You have the right to urgent medical assistance.
  • You have the right to complain about the way you have been treated by the police.

Contact

Email: SCTU@gov.scot

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