Paul Parsons

Paul advises and assists Police officers who are being investigated, as a result of allegations of a criminal or disciplinary nature. This also includes advising and assisting on death and serious injury cases when the local branch board and representative requires emergency advice for its members, the officers who have had to respond to these incidents, and where a statement is required during the duty period, or very shortly afterwards. These cases can conclude with inquest proceedings or tribunals.

He works with the Police Federation and its members from a wide range of local areas including London & The Metropolis, Thames Valley, & The Home counties, including Hertfordshire & Bedfordshire, Surrey, Sussex & Hampshire in the South and South East and in Norfolk & Suffolk.

Officers approach Paul at any stage of an investigation, but typically the advice is most effective, at an early stage ; at the stage of interview, or even before then, when the officer is required to give an early account of his or her actions, during the investigation phase, or following arrest.

The next key phase is that of the proceedings, whether these are prosecution proceedings at a Trial in the Magistrates Court or the Crown Court, or alternatively at a Gross Misconduct Tribunal, a Fast Track case before the Chief Constable or a Police Appeals Tribunal.

Paul is involved from start to finish, and if the case goes all the way to Trial or Tribunal he will instruct counsel.

Main areas of expertise

• Advising on the criminal law
• Advising on the Police (Conduct) Regulations & The Home Office Guidance of 2020
• Advising in regard to Post Incident Procedures following Death or Serious Injury
• Attending at Police stations following arrest or for voluntary interviews
• Preparing cases for trial or Tribunal Readiness

The Clients he works with

• Police Officers from all ranks, but usually from Police Constable to Chief Inspector

Qualifications

• 2018 Attendance at one week residential course run by PFOA (Police Firearms Officers Association) on Post Incident Management Procedures
• 1997 Police Station Accreditation
• 1990-1992 Post Graduate Diploma in Law. (CPE) Brighton University
• 1978-1981 BA (Hons) Cambridge University

“Paul Parsons is known for his longstanding relationship with the Police Federation of England and Wales. He is well regarded for his expertise in advising officers through both disciplinary and criminal allegations.” (Chambers and Partners)

“Paul is an exceptionally capable lawyer who has a keen eye for detail and a conversation style that puts clients at ease during every step of the process.” (Chambers and Partners)

“He is very good at getting down to a client’s level and giving them tactical advice.” (Chambers and Partners)