Help with interview under caution please

ta

[incrediblesulk]

Hi, I'm new here but hopefully I can help - okay, you got bad advice, that's not the problem; dealing with it is.
I suggest a phone call to CAB; it takes a while for an answer - personally I always email them thru thier site but since I cant even post my signature on this forum I doubt they'll let me give you a link, so just Google your local CAB and email them - you could just cut 'n' paste your post.

My advice (I'm not a solicitor or anything but I'll throw my 2p in). The DSS are just wannabe's, they are NOT Police and even if they were you can still go 'no comment' but of course they are the DSS and they'll Hitler you and stop your money so personally I'd write them and say that you are willing to go to their interview but are seeking legal advice first as is your right.

The DSS are very nosey so yeah you probably would have to tell them if you dared to earn ANY money so that's no real surprise but it's done now.

Here's what I'd do :

1. Contact CAB or a Solicitor (most give half hour advice free).
2. Admit to NOTHING until you've had that advice.
3. If they get you in before you get advice then go 'no comment'.
4. Write your local MP telling them you're being made to feel a crook because of bad advice.
5. If all else fails (this is a bit dodgy but I know someone whoi done it b4), phone them with a fake name and tell them you are not prepared to disclose details then tell them your story (no traceable details) and ask them where you stand.

Dont go sueing me if you take my advice; I dunno Im just trying to help (:

[tiglet]

Personally, I would just be honest: it was an honest mistake on your part. They will in all likelihood deal leniently with you and arrange to take back the over-payments on an affordable weekly rate.

Thank you very much, it's kind of you to take the time to help x

[tiglet]

No problem - do let us know how you get on (so many people don't, and we DO care)

ta

[Messydesk]

Ive been interviewed under caution (about council tax benefit supposed overpayment). My advice is - know your facts before you go. Keep calm. Dont let them intimidate you - the purpose of this in terview is to make you admit to whatever it is they are trying to prove. Remember everything will be taped so saying less is always better than saying more. If they try to talk over you say "Please let it be recorded that I have not had an opportun ity to - answer that question - or whatever it is. At the end of the interview sk for a copy of th tape. You are entitled to it. Good luck.

[dvdriley]

take a solicitor!!!

[Messydesk]

The only problem is if you are in that group of people who do not qualify for legal aid but cannot afford to pay a solicitor themselves, then this is not an option. My interview lasted three hours at £150 per hour plus travelling.