Why have the police extended my bail?

Are you on police bail and been informed it has been extended? Wondering why?

In this article, we’ll explain the many reasons why police may have extended your pre-charge bail, how many times it can be extended, and whether you can challenge the extensions.

Why have the police extended my bail?

There are several reasons why the police might choose to extend your bail. Here are some possible explanations for your situation:

The investigation is complex

More complex cases will naturally require more time to investigate. The investigation may involve multiple types of evidence, which all needs sourced and analysed. It may require input from experts in different fields. Coordinating all of this will take some time.

New evidence needs investigated

Fresh evidence may have come to light that the police need more time to investigate. The evidence may require particular resources so the evidence will take a while longer to process.

Waiting for third-parties

The police may be seeking out witnesses for interviews/statements and they may need expert input to analyse certain evidence. This will add extra time to the investigation due to the coordination work involved.

Resources are stretched

The police are under pressure due to factors like staff shortages, meaning they have less time to devote to moving your case along. They will prioritise their work and your case may not be the most pressing.

Other legal proceedings

If you are involved in multiple legal matters, this may slow down the progress of this case. All the investigators involved will need to coordinate schedules, access to you (the suspect), and potentially share evidence.

Risk management

The police may believe you are at risk of absconding, so they wish to extend bail to ensure you remain nearby, following your bail conditions (if not, you can be arrested). They need to prove they are still progressing with the investigation in order for the extension to be approved.

How many times can my bail be extended?

For most cases, the police can extend your bail 2 times (3 to 6 months, 6 to 9 months) and the Magistrates’ Court can extend it 1 time (9 to 12 months). So, in total, your bail can be extended 3 times.

Is it a good or bad sign if my bail is extended?

It’s not possible to categorically say if it’s a positive or negative if your bail is extended.

The police are unlikely to tell you or your solicitor exactly how the investigation is progressing and what specific lines of enquiry they are pursuing. They could have a great deal of evidence that they need to process, so need more time. They might have little evidence and are struggling to find any, so need more time to source more.

You need the context of how the investigation is progressing to know if it’s a good or bad sign when your bail is extended.

Can I challenge the bail extension?

Yes – you can challenge extensions to your bail. It’s best to get the assistance of a solicitor to do so.

You can apply for a judicial review if you believe your bail extension is unlawful or procedurally unfair. It is a complex process, but your solicitor can guide you through it and advise whether they believe it is a good idea.

On pre-charge bail?

If you are on pre-charge bail, it’s important that you understand what resources are available to you to reduce your likelihood of facing charges. Here at Holborn Adams, we are pioneers of pre-charge engagement. This is where you make a case to the police as to why you should not be charged with the crime. If successful, it will save you a great deal of stress, time, and money.

Please contact the pre-charge solicitors at Holborn Adams today. We are ready to take your call 24/7.

Holborn Adams