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The written test will assess the candidate's knowledge and understanding of basic criminal law, the law of evidence, and police station procedures. It will also assess the candidate's understanding of both the adviser's role in the police station, and of the skills that are needed to perform that role effectively.



Exemptions from the written test are only available to:

• Admitted solicitors and barristers
• Those that have completed the Legal Practice Course
• Fellows or members of the Institute of Legal Executives (ILEX) who have passed the Level 4 Professional Higher Diploma in Law (previously know as the Part 2 examinations) which must include a pass in the criminal law and litigation papers
• Those who have completed the bar vocational course

The written exam consists of a two-hour test. The examination will take the form of five questions, each with a total value of 25 marks. Candidates must choose four out of five questions; if candidates were to attempt all five only the first four will be marked. It should be noted that the pass mark is 50%, so candidates who answer fewer than four questions place themselves at a significant disadvantage.

The scenarios are set out in outline but the information should enable the candidates to raise the appropriate issues.

The examination will be open book, which permits candidates to take reference books into the examination with them. Personally prepared or lecture notes will not be allowed to be taken in to the examination room.

Due to the time restraints, candidates are advised not to spend too much valuable time on detailed or lengthy research.

The written examination will assess the advisors understanding of, and ability to, explain to a client relevant law and procedures drawn from the major areas listed below:

• Substantive criminal law
• The treatment of persons in custody
• The conduct of police interviews
• The evidential significance of facts or of things said or not said
• Police powers outside the police station
• The criminal process

You will be assessed against the standards of competence for the accreditation of solicitors and solicitors’ representatives advising at the police station.

These can be viewed at:

• http://www.lawsociety.org.uk/new/documents/accreditation/criminal-litigation-accreditation-scheme-standards-police-station.pdf

Candidates would also be well advised to study the Law Society Criminal Practitioners Newsletter Special Edition No. 63 by Professor Ed Cape.

Please see the link below:

• http://www.criminalsolicitor.net/forum/uploads/Shrek/GLink/2006-02-02_074418_crimpractjanspecialed.pdf
  

The written test must be passed by those who are not exempt, prior to registration with the LSC, as a probationary representative.