News

Duncan Lewis Solicitors' Actions Against Public Authorities team has launched a series of TikTok videos addressing critical questions about police powers and individual rights. Presented by caseworkers Grace Richardson and Rachael Thacker, along with solicitor Courtney Smith, these videos aim to demystify legal concepts and inform the public.

Can the Police Arrest Me Without a Warrant?

This video clarifies that, under certain conditions, police can arrest individuals without a warrant. According to the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, officers must have reasonable grounds to suspect involvement in a crime and deem the arrest necessary. Understanding these criteria helps individuals recognize the boundaries of lawful arrests.

Watch the Can the Police Arrest Me Without a Warrant and follow us for more updates in the series and more expert legal tips.

Next…

What is Meant by "Reasonable Grounds"?

The team explains that "reasonable grounds" require an officer to have an objective basis for suspicion, supported by specific facts or information. This standard prevents arbitrary actions and ensures that searches and arrests are conducted lawfully.

What Happens if the Police Do Not Have a Suspicion or Reasonable Grounds?

Without reasonable suspicion, any arrest or detention may be deemed unlawful, potentially leading to claims for wrongful arrest or false imprisonment. The video discusses legal remedies available to individuals in such situations.

When Can the Police Stop and Search a Person?

This segment outlines the conditions under which police can conduct stop and search operations, emphasizing the necessity for reasonable suspicion that the individual possesses prohibited items like drugs or weapons. The presenters also highlight the importance of knowing one's rights during such encounters.

How Does Discrimination Impact Stop and Search Practices?

Addressing a critical issue, the team discusses how discriminatory practices can affect stop and search procedures, leading to unlawful profiling and breaches of individual rights. They stress the need for accountability and legal recourse in instances of discrimination. These TikTok videos serve as accessible resources for the public to better understand their rights and the legal limitations of police powers.

Holding Public Authorities to Account

The Duncan Lewis Actions Against Public Authorities team specialises in challenging unlawful actions by public bodies, including the police, prison service, and government departments. The team represents individuals who have suffered due to state misconduct and regularly supports bereaved families in inquest proceedings.

Meet the Team

Courtney Smith – A solicitor in the Newcastle office, Courtney represents claimants in civil claims and complaints against public bodies, including the police, Home Office, Ministry of Justice, local authorities, and NHS Trusts. She is a member of INQUEST and provides legal representation for bereaved families in Article 2 inquests and deaths in custody, hospitals, and the wider community.

CourtneyS@duncanlewis.com | 020 7923 8416

Rachael Thacker – A caseworker in the Newcastle office, Rachael works on a range of civil claims and complaints against public bodies, assisting clients in seeking redress for misconduct and failings by state authorities.

RachaelT@duncanlewis.com | 020 3114 1337

Grace Richardson – A caseworker in the Newcastle office, Grace supports the team in managing civil claims and complaints against public bodies. She has experience working with vulnerable clients in both publicly funded and private legal matters.

GraceR@duncanlewis.com | 020 7275 2869

For expert advice on claims against the police or other public authorities, contact our team today.

Follow us at TikTokDuncanLewisSolicitors

Duncan Lewis Solicitors

Duncan Lewis Solicitors, an award-winning law firm, is renowned for its exceptional legal services and commitment to justice. The company employs a team of highly skilled solicitors offering top-tier representation in 25 fields of law, and ranked as top tier by the Chambers and the Legal 500 legal guides, and as one of the top 250 law firms in the country by the Times. Duncan Lewis was crowned Law Firm of the Year at the LexisNexis awards 2024, further establishing its credentials as one of the leading law firms in the UK.