At Broudie Jackson Canter, our solicitors are recognised for providing practical legal solutions for individuals and families across the North-West and beyond. Known for our unwavering commitment to justice, excellence in services, and devotion to making a positive difference in our local communities, we pride ourselves on offering common sense legal advice and representation for those who need it most. 

We have and always will champion access to justice for the most vulnerable. We provide legal aid in critical areas like inquests, family, mental health, and crime, ensuring everyone gets the legal support they rightfully deserve. We have represented bereaved families in some of the biggest and most high-profile inquests and inquiries in British history. Through our involvement in these critical cases, we have not only sought justice for the bereaved but also driven systemic changes to prevent future tragedies. Our commitment to truth, justice and accountability has made a lasting impact, ensuring that the voices of the ignored and silenced are heard, respected and acted upon. 

Find out more about our 60-year journey and the values that have guided us through the decades below.

The Covid Inquiry: 2022 – Present

In 2022, former Prime Minister Boris Johnson officially launched the Covid Inquiry. Elkan Abrahamson, legal and counsel teams had campaigned for this inquiry alongside the Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice group for more than two years. 

Our Covid Inquiry team, led by Elkan Abrahamson, Nicola Brook and Clare Fletcher, is diligently ensuring that the inquiry process provides bereaved families with the answers and accountability they rightfully deserve.

The Inquiry has taken a modular approach with ten modules being announced so far. At this stage, it is unknown how many modules there will be in total.

• Module 1: The UK’s pandemic preparedness and resilience. Public hearings commenced on the 13th of June 2023, with the module 1 report being published on the 18th of July 2024.
• Module 2: Core political and administrative decision making in the UK and devolved administrations (public hearings began October 2023).
• Module 3: The impact of the pandemic on healthcare systems (public hearings began in September 2024).
• Module 4: Vaccines, therapeutics, and anti-viral treatment across the UK (public hearings in summer 2024).
• Module 5: Government Procurement across the UK (public hearings scheduled for early 2025).
• Module 6: The care sector across the UK (public hearings begin in spring 2025).
• Module 7: Test, trace and isolate (public hearings begin in spring 2025).
• Module 8: Children and young people (public hearings begin in autumn 2025).
• Module 9: Economic response (public hearings begin in autumn 2025).
• Module 10: Impact on society (public hearing dates are yet to be announced).

Find out more about the Covid Inquiry here

The Hillsborough Law Now Campaign: 2021 – Present

Hillsborough Law Now is a campaign advocating for the introduction of the Accountability Bill (also known as ‘Hillsborough Law’), co-authored by Broudie Jackson Canter’s Elkan Abrahamson. This legal framework is designed to ensure transparency and accountability in public inquiries. The campaign is driven by the belief that justice should be accessible to all, and it aims to prevent the cover-ups and concealment that have historically plagued investigations into major disasters and state-related deaths.

In 2021, Elkan Abrahamson, together with a team of dedicated solicitors who have represented the Hillsborough families since 2013 marked the start of the campaign by writing an open letter to the UK Government. 

This letter called for the Hillsborough Law Bill to be adopted as a Government Bill and presented to Parliament as a matter of urgency. The bill would introduce a legal duty of candour on public bodies, with officials or organisations that mislead or obstruct investigations potentially facing criminal sanction.

In September 2023, the Labour Party announced their commitment to implementing Hillsborough Law, reflecting the tireless efforts and advocacy of bereaved families, legal figures and MP’s. This support was further echoed in 2024 when Prime Minister Sir Kier Starmer reaffirmed his commitment to Hillsborough Law, stating that it would be introduced to the statue book in 2025. 

The campaign has consistently responded to the government's interpretations of the duty of candour, as proposed in the Criminal Justice Bill. Broudie Jackson Canter remains committed to advocating for a comprehensive and accurate version of Hillsborough Law to be enacted into legislation.

Find out more about Hillsborough Law here

The Manchester Bombing Inquiry: 2020 – 2023 

The Manchester Arena Bombing Inquiry began in 2020, investigating the 2017 attack where a suicide bomber killed 22 people and injured hundreds at a concert. Chaired by Sir John Saunders, the Inquiry aimed to uncover the circumstances of the attack and identify any failings in security and emergency response.

Broudie Jackson Canter’s Inquests & Inquiries team represented five families through the Inquiry, seeking justice for those who had lost their loved ones and fighting to make sure such a tragedy will not happen again. 

The Inquiry heard evidence from 267 witnesses. In 2021, the first report was produced by Sir John Saunders. The published report detailed a devastating narrative, setting out multiple failures and missed opportunities by multiple organisations.

In 2022 the second report was released, finding that at least one life could have been saved.

The final report, released on 2nd March 2023, found that MI5 missed crucial intelligence about the attackers return from Libya, which could have led to the discovery of his home-made bomb. The failure to share this intelligence with counter-terrorism police was a significant "communication breakdown." The attacker's family was also found responsible for his extremism, and he should have been referred to Prevent up to two years before the attack.

Broudie Jackson Canter is acquired by the MAPD Group: 2020

Broudie Jackson Canter, part of the Jackson Lees Group, was acquired by the MAPD Group in 2020. This acquisition was part of a management buyout led by Brian Cullen, then CEO of Jackson & Canter and Joanna Kingston-Davies, then COO of Lees Solicitors. Brian & Joanna came together to form the MAPD Group and bought the Jackson Lees Group. 

The MAPD Group, which stands for Making A Positive Difference, was established to support the growth of local law firms through strategic acquisitions.

Since the acquisition, the MAPD Group has continued to expand, acquiring several other law firms and integrating them into its network while maintaining their individual brands.

Birmingham Pub Bombing Inquest: 2019

In 2019, Broudie Jackson Canter represented two families in the re-opening of the Birmingham Pub Bombing inquests. The inquests sough to uncover the truth behind the tragic events of 1974. On that day, bombs exploded in two pubs in Birmingham, 220 people were injured and 21 people tragically died. It was one of the deadliest attacks in Great Britian. 

Nicola Brook, Associate Director & Solicitor at Broudie Jackson Canter, was one of the key representatives who helped to secure Unlawful Killing verdicts for the bereaved families. 

This verdict was reached after a thorough examination of over 28,000 pieces of evidence and testimonies from various witnesses, including civilians, police officers, emergency responders, and former IRA members.

The jury's decision prompted calls for the prosecution of those responsible who are still alive.

The formation of Jackson Lees Group: 2014 - 2017

In 2014, Jackson Canter began the move into new offices at Walker House in Liverpool city centre.

In 2016, the Jackson Canter Group acquired Lees Solicitors LLP and became Jackson Lees, further expanding its reach and capabilities. The following year, Broudie Jackson Canter became a founding member of the newly formed Jackson Lees Group alongside Jackson Lees.

Hillsborough Inquest: 2014 – 2016

In 2014, Broudie Jackson Canter were privileged to represent 20 families in the second Hillsborough coroner's Inquests, 25 years after the Hillsborough Disaster, which tragically saw 97 people lose their lives.

After the initial inquests in 1991 returned verdicts of accidental death, the families of the victims were determined to seek justice and uncover the truth about the disaster. They believed the original verdicts did not reflect the true circumstances of the disaster and that there had been significant failings by the authorities and inquests. 

For over two decades, the families, supported by groups like the Hillsborough Family Support Group, campaigned tirelessly. They organised public demonstrations, called upon politicians, and worked to keep the disaster in the public eye. Elkan Abrahamson also provided pro bono legal support to the families throughout the campaign. His and their persistence paid off when the Hillsborough Independent Panel was established in 2010 to review all documents related to the disaster. 

The second inquests were initiated following the Hillsborough Independent Panel's 2012 report, which unearthed significant new evidence. This led to the quashing of the original inquest verdicts of accidental death, paving the way for a thorough re-examination of the disaster.

Spanning over two years, the Hillsborough Inquests became the longest in British legal history. Elkan Abrahamson played a significant role in representing the 20 bereaved families, he worked alongside Pete Weatherby KC to achieve an Unlawful Killing verdict in April 2016. The verdict was a significant victory for the victims' families, who had tirelessly campaigned for truth, justice and accountability for decades. It spurred further investigations and legal actions against those responsible for the catastrophic failures on that fateful day.

The Jackson Canter Foundation is created: 2015

In 2015, The Jackson Canter Foundation is founded to support disadvantaged groups within the community through various initiatives. The foundation continues the mission of Phillip Canter and Howard Jackson, striving to make a positive difference in people's lives.

The foundation is based on four key pillars: 

1. Justice: Ensures access to justice for all, funding access to justice charities, and providing pro bono work for vulnerable individuals.
2. Social: Engages local communities across Liverpool, Wirral, and Manchester, supporting them through various initiatives and staff involvement.
3. Education: Supports educational initiatives, offering tutoring, training, talks, drop-ins, and seminars to enhance knowledge and skills.
4. Medical Care: Provides support to individuals needing medical care, funding essential medical assistance and related charities.

Find out more about the foundation here

Awarded Customer Service Excellence (CSE) Award: 2014

In 2014, Broudie Jackson Canter was awarded the Customer Service Excellence (CSE) Award, a testament to the firms unwavering commitment to client satisfaction and service quality. 

This accolade marked the firm as only the second law firm to achieve such prestigious CSE accreditation, highlighting a dedication to maintaining high standards in a competitive legal market.

RM Broudie and Jackson Canter Limited is formed: 2009 – 2012

In 2009, Jackson & Canter merged with AS Law, based in Myrtle Parade. This merger brought Elkan Abrahamson, specialising in prison law and public family work, into the firm as a partner. Elkan's notable cases include the Hurst case, which established that a blanket ban on prisoners' right to vote was a breach of human rights. This case became a contentious issue, particularly for the Conservative Party, but it required minimal changes to UK law to comply.

Jackson & Canter’s merger with RM Broudie in 2012 was another milestone. After Robert Broudie's passing, Paul Thompson, Ken Heckle, and Esther Leach kept the practice going, to continue excellent work in criminal law. To preserve the Broudie goodwill, the firm created a second trading style: Broudie Jackson Canter (BJC), which handled most of the legal aid work.

Around this time, challenges came from government cuts to legal aid. Anticipating a 20% reduction in income, the firm devised a strategy to adapt, transitioning to a hybrid structure with a limited company as part of the LLP, focusing on growing non-legal aid work through Jackson Canter Ltd.

The firm moved from their Princes Road base in Toxteth and relocated to an expanded office on Dale Street.

Expansion, Innovation and Change 1984 – 2005

From the Princes Road office, the work of Jackson & Canter grew significantly. The firm began handling numerous immigration and asylum cases and moved into other areas of law.

In the mid-1980s, Jackson & Canter hired Gus Iro, the first Black articled clerk in the city. Despite initial challenges, including being refused entry to court, Gus's presence marked a significant step forward in diversity and inclusion within the legal profession.

Jackson & Canter’s extensive work in Toxteth saw their involvement with Liverpool Law Society begin, with partner Andrew Holroyd becoming President in 1993.

Chris Topping joined the practice as a Trainee Solicitor in 1986, bringing a connection from his family's association with the firms’ founders. The late 1980s and 1990s were marked by the expansion of multiple branch offices, including Park Road, Scotland Road, and Aigburth Road. Chris Topping's development of the Scotland Road office led to significant achievements in police law and class action claims. His work is influencing changes in police practices and legislation to this day.

During this period, Phillip Canter and Howard Jackson, the firms' founders, departed. The firm merged with Chadwick and Haggis in Garston in 1992 to further expand office network and expertise.

Jackson & Canter achieved the Legal Aid Quality Mark and maintained accreditations such as Lexcel and Investor in People, reflecting an ongoing commitment to excellence. Principal areas of work included crime, family law, immigration, housing, litigation, conveyancing, and probate, all delivered from offices across Liverpool. The compulsory purchase of our South John Street premises in 2005 led to Jackson & Canter relocating to Church Street, accommodating the growing team.

The Toxteth Uprising: 1981

The Toxteth Uprising in 1981 marked a turning point for both Merseyside and the history of Jackson & Canter.

Beginning on July 4th and reaching its peak on July 6th 1981, the uprising was fuelled by deep-seated racial tensions, economic hardship, and widespread discontent with police practices. Tragically one life was lost.

The destruction was widespread and extensive, with the Rialto building containing the Jackson & Canter office amongst the structures that succumbed to the flames. The devastation was so severe that nothing could be salvaged.

Despite the devastation, the firm continued operating from a Portakabin outside the remnants of the burnt-out office. This arrangement, through far from ideal, symbolised the firm’s devotion to the community. Within months, Jackson & Canter relocated to new premises on Princes Road, resuming their mission to provide the highest quality legal support for the people of Liverpool.

The Toxteth Uprising served as a pivotal moment for Liverpool and Jackson & Canter emerged stronger and more focused to make a meaningful positive difference to the Merseyside region.

Toxteth and the Community: 1975 – 1980

From Rialto, Canter worked tirelessly to gain the trust of the Liverpool-born Black community amid on-going conflict between the community and the police, with the office becoming a refuge during disunity.

Both Jackson and Canter’s dedication was mirrored by the rest of the team, including recruit, Andrew Holroyd who joined the practice in 1975 and became a partner in 1977. The firm would often intervene in conflicts, protecting their clients' rights against police actions and offering legal guidance amidst rising tensions.

Their involvement extended beyond legal representation, forging strong ties with community organisations like the Granby Housing Advice Centre, with Jackson & Canter regularly providing free advice, addressing substandard housing conditions and supporting local needs.

Expanding into Kirkby and Toxteth: 1970 – 1975

From their Dale Street base, Jackson & Canter aimed to bring legal services closer to the community, particularly those in disadvantaged suburbs.

In the early 1970s, the firm expanded its presence to Kirkby and later to the Rialto Buildings in Toxteth. The Kirkby office was later managed by one of their colleagues as the pair decided to focus their efforts on the Toxteth office.

Initially a second-hand furniture store, Rialto became a hub for Jackson & Canter. They expanded into adjoining shop units on the Princes Roadside of the building to accommodate the growing needs of the Toxteth community. This was not just a business expansion, but a move to integrate within a community divided by racial tensions and economic hard ship.

The Early Years: 1961 – 1970

In 1961, Samuel Howard Jackson and Phillip Clement Canter joined together to set up their practice under the trading name Jackson & Canter. They embarked on their mission with a clear goal: to make a meaningful difference to the lives of their clients.

Working out of their first office on the second floor of Imperial Chambers on Dale Street in the heart of Liverpool, the partners’ approach was revolutionary for its time, focussing on building personal relationships with clients.

The pair were modest in their approach to legal work but would be firm and persistent to ensure the best results for their clients. Jackson focused on conveyancing and probate, while Canter was often seen in the Magistrates Courts, defending individuals accused of criminal offences.

Our Mission Continues

Today, Broudie Jackson Canter remains committed to its founding principles, with a team of experts working tirelessly to break the mould of legal practice to ensure justice and equality.

Our mission to make a positive difference in the lives of our clients and the Merseyside community remains at the heart of everything we do.

Contact Us

If you wish to contact members of our team for advice, please give us a call on 0151 282 1700, request a call back or send an enquiry.