At TV Edwards, our released under investigation solicitors will give you clear, proactive advice that protects you while the police continue with their enquiries.
Being released under investigation can feel unsettling. You may not know whether the police will charge you, how long the investigation will last, or what you should do next. Our criminal defence solicitors understand the stress that this period can cause, and are here to guide you every step of the way.
With over 95 years at the forefront of criminal defence work in London, we act quickly to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and push for cases to be resolved as quickly as possible.
The criminal team has a number of solicitors who are extremely capable and have extensive experience of representing young people charged with serious crimes.
– Legal 500 UK (2025)
Arrested or Interviewed? Need Urgent Advice? Call Us 24/7
If you or a loved one has been arrested or attended a voluntary police interview and was then released under investigation, contact us immediately. Our recognised specialists can give urgent legal advice and attend police stations in London and around the UK, including at weekends and bank holidays.
Call us, and you can expect compassion, discretion, and understanding from a highly experienced team.
Pre-Charge Advice
It may benefit you to receive specialist pre-charge advice if you have been released under investigation.
Pre-charge work is not covered by legal aid and would need to be privately funded. However, instructing a solicitor at this early stage can be extremely valuable. In many cases, proactive legal input before a charging decision is made can significantly improve the outcome – and may even help to avoid a prosecution altogether.
Our solicitors can provide pre-charge advice by:
- Reviewing the allegations and evidence gathered so far
- Advising you on your legal position and future risks
- Preparing detailed written representations to the police or CPS
- Identifying weakness in evidence or legal issues early
- Actively pushing for a decision of no further action
When early, strategic action is taken, lengthy investigations can be shortened, while stress and uncertainty can be reduced.
What Does Released Under Investigation Mean?
Being released under investigation (often shortened to RUI) means that the police have not charged you but are continuing to investigate the allegation. Unlike police bail, there is usually no fixed end date and no bail conditions attached.
You may be released under investigation after an arrest or a voluntary interview while officers carry out further enquiries, such as reviewing evidence or obtaining expert reports.
Although you are not charged, the investigation will remain open. This uncertainty can affect your work, family life, and mental wellbeing. Importantly, anything you do during this period could impact the outcome of the case.
Our released under investigation solicitors take a proactive approach, making early representations to the police and Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to seek:
- No further action decisions
- Release without charge
- Swift resolution of lengthy investigations
Related Criminal Defence Services
What to Expect from Our Solicitors
TV Edwards’ criminal defence team has been at the forefront of criminal law for over 95 years collectively. We are regarded for our clear advice, tireless preparation, and rigorous defence.
If you are released under investigation, our solicitors will:
- Explain exactly what RUI means in this circumstance
- Advise you on what to do (and what not to do) during the investigation
- Communicate directly with the police on your behalf
- Make early written representations to challenge weak evidence
- Push for timely decisions to avoid unnecessary delays
We keep you fully informed in plain English, so you always know where you stand. Where necessary, we work with special barristers and experts to strengthen your defence and protect your future.
Why Choose TV Edwards?
- Highly ranked in legal directories – Legal 500 and Chambers UK for both named solicitors and the department as a whole
- Immediate emergency support – call us on 0844 880 7588 for round-the-clock advice
- Specialist representation – police station advisors, solicitors, and higher court advocates
- Hardworking problem-solvers – we fearlessly challenge evidence, protecting your interests
- Honest and down-to-earth – we explain your options compassionately and in plain English
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Released Under Investigation Frequently Asked Questions
Should I contact a solicitor if I’ve been released under investigation?
Yes. Even though you have not been charged, legal advice remains imperative. A solicitor can protect your rights, advise you during the investigation, and make early representations to stop the case from progressing.
How long can someone be released under investigation?
There is no fixed time limit. Investigations can last weeks or months. Our solicitors actively chase updates and apply pressure to avoid any unnecessary delays.
Can I be charged after being released under investigation?
Yes. The police may later decide to charge, take no further action, or offer an out-of-court disposal. Early legal intervention improves the chances of avoiding charge.
Do I need to answer police questions after being released under investigation?
You should always speak to a solicitor before engaging with the police again. We will advise you on the safest approach and attend any further interviews.
