Criminal procedure · for English speakers in France · France · verified 7 September 2026
Summoned to an audition libre in France: what rights should you establish before attending?
An audition libre is a police interview outside custody. A suspect must be told the alleged offence and their rights to leave, remain silent and receive an interpreter where needed. A lawyer can assist when the offence carries imprisonment. Witness rules differ, and a summons must not simply be ignored. This page helps you identify the status stated on your document and prepare questions for a criminal lawyer.
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May I ignore the summons?
No. The right to leave a voluntary interview does not remove the obligation to attend a lawful police summons. CPP article 78 permits compelled attendance with prosecutorial authorisation. Contact the investigators if you cannot attend and speak to a lawyer beforehand.
How can I tell whether I am a suspect?
Ask expressly. A vague summons does not establish that you are only a witness. Article 61-1 requires information about the alleged offence before interviewing a suspect. Written advance details are required where the investigation permits them.
When can a lawyer attend?
A suspect has that right for a crime or délit carrying imprisonment. Article 61-1 allows a chosen lawyer or one designated by the bar. A designated lawyer is not automatically free; ask about the relevant legal assistance.
Can I remain silent?
Yes, a suspect interviewed under article 61-1 may make statements, answer questions or remain silent. The rights must be notified and that notification recorded. A lawyer can explain how to exercise them in the circumstances.
Can I request an interpreter?
Yes, article 61-1 provides interpreter assistance where a suspect needs it. Raise the need when summoned so you can understand the questions, notified rights and written record. Limited conversational French may not suffice for an interview.
Are witnesses treated in the same way?
No. A witness without grounds for suspicion falls under article 62, and their status can change. Where investigative necessity justifies it, a witness may be held strictly as needed for up to four hours. That is not a four-hour cap for every voluntary suspect interview.
Can I leave at any time?
A suspect interviewed freely under article 61-1 can leave. Ask clearly about leaving and any change in the legal measure. Garde à vue, police custody, requires the conditions of article 62-2. It is not automatic because someone remains silent, and its rights must be notified.
What should I check before signing?
Read every statement, ask for corrections and flag anything you do not understand before signing. Article 78 provides for a procès-verbal, the written record. Article 61-1 also requires the rights notification to be recorded; ask your lawyer about any discrepancy.
What can Julie help me prepare?
The summons, a factual timeline and questions for the lawyer. The lawyer handles defence strategy; Julie can explain the documents. An interview alone does not determine the eventual criminal outcome. If liberty is restricted, request assistance appropriate to the measure formally notified.
Which rights depend on my status?
These are different legal regimes, not interchangeable labels.
| Issue | Suspect interviewed freely | Witness |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Allegations notified | No plausible suspicion |
| Leaving | Right to leave under 61-1 | Necessary retention possible, ≤4 hours |
| Lawyer | Right if imprisonment possible | Different rules from suspect |
| Silence | Express right notified | Do not import suspect regime |
| Interpreter | Assistance where needed | Request language arrangements |
| Change of measure | Custody conditions required | Suspicion changes applicable rights |
What should I clarify before the interview?
This guide directs preparation; it does not advise a defence strategy.
Summons navigator
Use the wording on your summons.
Answer the questions on the left: the result is a category to verify, never a guaranteed amount or deadline.
- CLARIFY STATUS · Ask for your status and the alleged facts.
- WITNESS RULES · Check the witness regime and any change of status.
- LAWYER BEFORE INTERVIEW · Arrange legal assistance before the interview.
- RIGHTS TO CLARIFY · Have the offence and applicable rights explained.
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Julie or a criminal lawyer?
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Are you suspected of an offence carrying imprisonment?
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Sources. Read the linked articles alongside your complete document.
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Information, not advice. Julie helps explain and organise the file. A qualified professional reviews your rights and deadlines.
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