Gathering Evidence - Criminal Cases
Identifying Case Material
At 4RIIS, we specialise in conducting witness interviews and identifying, reviewing, and analysing relevant material to uncover evidence that may support or challenge a client’s position. This evidence is clearly presented as exhibits in proof statements and, if instructed and following review by a legal professional, can be incorporated into Civil Procedure Rules-compliant witness statements. These are designed to assist solicitors, barristers, business managers, and HR professionals in assessing and managing cases effectively.
We understand the time-consuming and often complex nature of gathering relevant material—particularly from sources such as social media, where data is not always readily accessible.
At 4RIIS, we provide the technical expertise and tools necessary to lawfully extract and secure essential digital content.
We place strong emphasis on identifying both the strengths and potential vulnerabilities of a case from the outset. With the appropriate authorisation, we are also able to obtain additional documentation—such as medical records and other third-party materials (including via subject access requests)—which is essential to developing a robust and well-informed case strategy.
This work is especially critical in domestic cases involving allegations of harassment, stalking, or coercive and controlling behaviour—where the definitions of offences are often broad, and there may be opportunities to rebut, mitigate, or counter allegations through careful evidence gathering and analysis.
Pre -Charge - Proof Statements
At 4RIIS, we take instructions from solicitors or public access barristers to conduct post-interview suspect interviews. These are typically arranged while the suspect is on police bail following their initial police interview.
Our role is to obtain the suspect’s full account between interviews, ensuring both the legal advisor and client are fully prepared for any subsequent police interview. This process allows for a thorough review of what was said during the initial interview and helps identify any relevant information that may:
- Prevent a charge or escalation to court proceedings
- Support arguments for less restrictive bail conditions
- Provide grounds for alternative police disposals
This service ensures proactive case management and maximises the suspect's opportunity for fair and effective representation throughout the investigation process.
This service can be particularly useful if there is a change in legal representation between initial and any subsequent interviews.
Post Charge - Proof Statement
At 4RIIS, we take instructions from solicitors or public access barristers to conduct post-charge suspect interviews. These are typically arranged while the defendant is on court bail following their initial police interview.
Our role is to obtain the defendant’s full account at this stage, which can support disclosure and ensure both the legal advisor and client are fully prepared for any subsequent court hearings, including trial.
This process allows for a detailed review of the initial interview, helping to clarify the defendant's position and identify any relevant information or exhibits that may assist in the preparation of the defence or mitigation.
Our work may also:
- Support applications for less restrictive bail conditions
- Provide material that informs alternative case resolutions
This service is particularly valuable in assisting defence counsel in the preparation of criminal defence statements, which are mandatory in Crown Court proceedings.
By facilitating early and informed case preparation, we help ensure effective and proactive case management, maximising the defendant’s opportunity for fair representation throughout the legal process.
Section 9 witness Statement (on MG11) for submission to Police for prosecution.
At 4RIIS, following complaints handling and internal investigations, we compile cases for submission to the police. We understand that police resources are stretched and that not every matter is initially prioritised for investigation.
That’s where we come in.
We prepare fully documented case files—doing much of the groundwork—thereby increasing the likelihood of the case being accepted and assessed under the Full Code Test for charging by the police or referral to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
Our files include compliant Section 9 witness statements prepared in line with the National File Standard and supported by MG (Manual of Guidance) forms and relevant exhibits. These matters typically relate to acquisitive crimes such as shop theft and fraud.
Please see our Case Outcomes section for examples of successful submissions we’ve handled.