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What to do if…
you are asked to provide fingerprints, a DNA sample, or other identification for a case

Short answer

Pause and make them spell out whether this is mandatory (police powers) or voluntary—then ask for a solicitor before you sign, agree, or answer questions.

Do not do these things

  • Don’t “just agree to get it over with” if you’re unsure whether it’s voluntary.
  • Don’t physically resist or struggle if you’re in custody—keep it calm and verbal, and let your solicitor challenge anything later.
  • Don’t sign anything you haven’t read or don’t understand (especially anything describing “consent”).
  • Don’t give extra information “to help” (timelines, names, explanations) before legal advice.
  • Don’t assume it will be deleted later—ask what happens to it.
  • If you are not detained and it’s being asked voluntarily, don’t let yourself be pressured into “staying to sort it out” on the spot—leave and get legal advice.

What to do now

  1. Get the basics and write them down:
    • Who is asking (name/force/role), which station/office, and the case reference.
    • Exactly what is being requested (fingerprints, photographs, mouth swab, hair root, skin swab, “elimination” sample, or an identification procedure).
    • Whether you are being asked as a witness/volunteer or as a suspect/detainee/charged person.
  2. Ask one clear question: “Am I legally required to provide this today?”
    • If they say yes, ask: “Under what power?” and “Am I under arrest / being detained / required to attend?”
    • If they say no / “it’s voluntary,” say: “I’m not consenting to anything today. I want legal advice.”
  3. Ask what type of sample it is (this changes what “consent” means):
    • Ask: “Is it a mouth swab / hair root / skin swab / fingerprints / photograph?”
    • If they mention blood, urine, or dental impressions, ask: “Are you asking for my permission, and who has authorised this?” (and record the answer).
  4. If you’re in custody or at a police station, ask for a solicitor immediately.
    • Say: “I want legal advice. Please arrange the duty solicitor.”
    • Then stop discussing the case (even casual chat). Keep responses to identity/process only.
  5. If you’re being asked to attend later (e.g., after release/charge):
    • Ask for the request in writing and confirm the time, place, what will be taken, and what happens if you don’t attend.
    • Forward it to your solicitor (or ask for the duty solicitor via the station if you don’t have one).
  6. If the request is for an identification procedure (e.g., photos/video identification/ID parade):
    • Say: “I want legal advice before any identification procedure.”
    • Ask what type of procedure it is and when it will happen, and record it.
  7. Ask about retention and deletion routes (record the answer; don’t debate it):
    • “Will this be stored on police databases? For how long? How do I request deletion if I’m not charged or I’m cleared?”
  8. If you feel pressured, use a steady one-liner:
    • “I’m not refusing to cooperate. I’m asking for legal advice before I agree or sign anything.”
  9. If you are a child/young person or a vulnerable adult:
    • Ask for an appropriate adult and a solicitor. Don’t proceed without them.

What can wait

  • You do not need to decide today whether to complain, challenge retention, or take legal action.
  • You do not need to “explain your side” to speed things up.
  • You do not need to guess what the police “already know” or try to correct them in the moment.

Important reassurance

It’s normal to feel trapped or panicky when someone asks for DNA or fingerprints. Slowing the moment down, asking whether it’s voluntary or mandatory, and getting legal advice are safe, ordinary steps.

Scope note

This is first-steps guidance for staying calm, avoiding accidental consent, and getting the right support. A solicitor can advise on the specific power being used, what you must provide, and what can be challenged later.

Important note

This is general information, not legal advice. What police can require depends on your situation (e.g., arrested vs voluntary attendance, age, offence type, and the type of sample). If you’re unsure, ask for a solicitor before you agree or sign anything.

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