Postal Requisition Offences
What is a postal requisition?
A postal requisition is a summons to attend a Magistrates court.
It informs the defendant the offences they have been charged with and confirm the date and time to attend a particular Magistrates’ Court.
You are likely to receive a postal requisition if you have been for a voluntary police interview or arrested and subsequently released under investigation.
Failure to attend court
Should you fail to attend court in answer to the postal requisition the likely outcome will be that a warrant without bail will be issued for your immediate arrest. This means that the police will arrest and detain you at a police station in order to bring you before the next available sitting Magistrates’ Court. This could be on a Saturday or Bank Holiday and you could spend many hours in custody.
If you have been released under investigation it is extremely important that you check your post regularly and keep the police informed of any change of address to avoid an unnecessary arrest.
If you instruct Kings Solicitors whilst you are released under investigation, then we will make regular contact with the police to ensure that you know what is happening with the investigation. We will keep the police informed on your behalf of any changes of address. We will also be able to tell you when the investigation has been concluded and if you are likely to have to go to court.
Even if we have not advised you in interview, please feel free to contact us afterwards. We will be able to advise you on the likelihood of further interviews and provide the same service to you as we would to those who we represented in interview.
This will ensure that you have representation at this all important first hearing and will have investigated any defence that you might wish to put forward and make an application for legal aid if appropriate.
Why Choose Us
Postal Requisition Offences & Court Summons — FAQs
What is a postal requisition?
A postal requisition is a written notice requiring you to attend a Magistrates’ Court to answer criminal charges.
Why have I received a postal requisition?
You’re likely to receive one after a voluntary interview or being released under investigation, once the police and CPS decide to charge you.
What happens if I ignore a postal requisition?
If you fail to attend court, the Magistrates’ Court will usually issue a warrant for your arrest, often without bail.
Can I be arrested for missing the hearing date?
Yes. You may be arrested, kept in custody and brought before the next available court, including weekends and Bank Holidays.
How can Kings Solicitors help if I am under investigation?
We can liaise with the police, track the progress of the case, update you on decisions, and help you prepare if a court summons is likely.
Do I still need a solicitor if it’s “only” a summons by post?
Yes. Your first hearing is critical. Early advice can affect plea decisions, case preparation and the eventual outcome.
Can Kings Solicitors help me apply for Legal Aid for my hearing?
Yes. We will advise you on eligibility and submit a Legal Aid application where appropriate.
