Inquest Representation
When someone dies in custody, detention, or state care, their family deserves answers. Inquests are a vital opportunity to establish how and why someone died, to hold institutions accountable, and to secure recommendations that prevent future deaths. We provide specialist representation at inquests involving deaths in prison, police custody, mental health units, care homes, and following contact with state authorities.
Fighting for Bereaved Families
Inquests are often the only opportunity for families to understand what happened and to ensure lessons are learned. We fight to give families a voice in the inquest process.
Types of Inquests We Handle
Deaths in Custody
Deaths in prison, police custody, immigration detention, or secure psychiatric units.
Police Contact
Deaths following contact with police, including pursuits, restraint, and use of force.
Care Home Deaths
Deaths in care homes involving neglect, poor care standards, or safeguarding failures.
Hospital Deaths
Deaths in hospital involving treatment failures, neglect, or inadequate care.
Mental Health
Deaths of detained mental health patients or following discharge from mental health services.
Social Services Contact
Deaths of children or vulnerable adults known to social services or subject to safeguarding.
What We Do
Our comprehensive inquest representation includes:
The Inquest Process
Investigation
After notification of a death, the coroner opens an investigation. We help families secure legal aid, obtain disclosure of documents, and instruct experts to review the evidence. This stage can take months or even years.
Pre-Inquest Review
Pre-inquest review hearings address procedural matters, including scope of inquest, Article 2 engagement, disclosure issues, witness lists, and whether a jury is required. We fight to ensure the inquest properly examines systemic failures.
Inquest Hearing
At the inquest hearing, witnesses give evidence under oath and are questioned by the coroner and legal representatives. We conduct thorough cross-examination to establish the full circumstances of death and identify failings.
Conclusion & Follow-Up
The coroner (or jury) determines the cause of death and records a conclusion. We pursue Prevention of Future Deaths Reports, challenge inadequate conclusions through judicial review, and explore civil claims for compensation where appropriate.
Why Choose Us
Leading Specialists
Recognised experts in inquest law with extensive experience in complex Article 2 inquests.
Supportive Approach
We understand the trauma of losing a loved one and provide compassionate, sensitive support throughout.
Legal Aid Experts
We secure legal aid funding so families can access justice without financial barriers.
Fighting for Truth
We challenge cover-ups, demand full disclosure, and ensure institutions are held accountable.