Inquests & Inquiries 

The sudden and unexpected death of a family member is a profoundly distressing experience. In circumstances where someone has died in custody this can be particularly difficult, often resulting in lengthy investigations and little information being provided to families. At Broudie Jackson Canter, we have dedicated over fifty years to ensuring bereaved families get the answers they deserve through thorough investigations at inquests and public inquiries.  

We understand that navigating the complexities of these proceedings requires a legal team that is not only knowledgeable, but also compassionate and committed to seeking answers before the coroners’ court and government inquiries. These matters are not always straightforward and the legal processes are often unfamiliar. Our experienced team is here to support you through what can be an emotionally challenging time.  

What’s the difference between Inquests, Major Inquests and Public Inquiries?  

Inquests

Inquests are judicial investigations into unexplained or sudden deaths; violent deaths; and deaths in state custody or otherwise in state detention. They play a vital role in uncovering the truth, providing closure to bereaved families and ensuring that lessons are learned to prevent future tragedies.  

We have extensive experience with various types of inquests, including some of the most complex and well-known cases in UK history.  Our team specialise in coroners’ inquests, in particular helping families secure answers when their loved ones have died in prison, police custody hospital or care setting, or while detained under the Mental Health Act.

Read more about our work and previous cases

Major Inquests

We have a distinguished record of representing families in major inquests. Our team were instructed to represent 20 families in the Hillsborough Inquests and two families in the Birmingham Pub Bombing Inquests, helping to secure Unlawful Killing Verdicts.

Our Inquest solicitors are meticulous, empathetic and driven by the need to help bereaved families navigate their way through these complex legal proceedings to get the answers they deserve. We understand that families, in addition to answers, want changes or recommendations too. They want to know that lessons have been learnt and similar tragedies won’t happen to others. Our Inquest solicitors will be by your side at every step, guiding you through the process and ensuring that your voice and concerns are heard.

Public Inquiries

Public Inquiries are formal, independent investigations convened by the government to probe into matters of public concern. These inquiries can stem from events such as major accidents, public-health issues, or cases of systemic failure(s) within public bodies.  

Our Inquiry solicitors have previously acted on behalf of 5 bereaved families in the Manchester Arena Inquiry.  We were instrumental in pushing the Inquiry to make recommendations that will save lives when they are implemented, we were also heavily involved in persuading the Chair of the need to monitor the progress that the various organisations were making against the recommendations.  Though the Inquiry has long since ceased we continue to be involved with our families in helping to shape other improvements that will make our country safer.

Our expert inquiry solicitors are proud to represent over 7,000 members of the Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice group in the ongoing Covid Inquiry. Our role is to always represent our clients' interests and ensure that the inquiry process is thorough, fair and can provide answers for our clients. We work tirelessly to identify and examine any failings by the State and secure recommendations and changes that are necessary to prevent future tragedies.

Learn more about the Covid Inquiry

How can Broudie Jackson Canter Help?  

Our specialist inquest and inquiry solicitors are committed to transparency and accountability, striving to ensure that the inquest and public inquiry processes serve the public interest and contribute to justice and closure.  

We work tirelessly to advocate for our clients, ensuring that their rights are protected, and their stories are told. We can represent you at inquest hearings held by the coroner, or before an inquiry tribunal convened by the government. In many cases, this can be funded by Legal Aid or public inquiry funding, which will often depend on the circumstances of the particular case, but is not always dependent upon your income.

For more information or to discuss your specific needs, please contact one of our team today on 0151 227 1429, request a callback at a time that is convenient for you, or make an enquiry today.