Caution

Custody

A formal warning given by a police officer before questioning a suspect. The standard caution under PACE Code C is: "You do not have to say anything. But it may harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned something which you later rely on in court. Anything you do say may be given in evidence." A modified version is used where a suspect has been denied access to a solicitor on security grounds.

In practice

The caution must be given before any questions are put to a suspect about an offence. If there is a break in questioning, a reminder caution should be administered. Officers should check that the suspect understands the caution, particularly where the person is vulnerable or has limited English. An interview conducted without a proper caution may result in the evidence being excluded.

Related terms

Voluntary interview
Appropriate adult
PACE

Last updated 24 September 2026