DPF Briefing

February 2004

Legal Representation Explanation

In response to several enquiries to the information posted on the DPF Website 5th February 2004 reference Legal Representation we would like to reassure members that there has been no fundamental change to the legal service provided by the DPF.

Legal representation is, and always has been, governed by Rule 2(c)* of the Rules & Constitution of the Defence Police Federation and this rule has not changed whatsoever.

In order to avoid undue wastage of our membership funds our aim is to manage efficiently all cases referred to solicitors. This is obviously in the best interests of all members of the DPF.

As an example in the past we have forwarded cases to our solicitors at a substantial cost to the membership and as a result the solicitor has contacted us asking for the answer. So, in effect we are paying them for our own advice. Does this make sense? No.

We are therefore now managing this facility as you the membership would expect.

It is worthy of note that DPF Officials and accredited Federation Friends have access to legal advice at nil cost, to assist in the assessment of individual cases.

Be assured that we will not fail to properly represent any member and where legal advice or representation would be beneficial then it WILL be provided.

Remember these are guidelines not rules and every case will be judged on it’s own merits.

Eamon Keating National Chairman (Designate)

Jim Miller General Secretary

*RULE2 (c) Objects

The objects of the Federation shall be:

(c) To provide legal advice and assistance to members on matters arising from their employment including disciplinary proceedings. Such advice and assistance shall be wholly within the absolute discretion of the National Executive Committee. Legal advice and assistance not connected with members' employment and for members families may be provided and such provision shall also be wholly within the absolute discretion of the National Executive Committee.