Broudie Jackson Canter is the foremost law firm for individuals and communities seeking justice through public inquiries. With unparalleled expertise in representing clients in high-profile cases like the Hillsborough Inquests, the Birmingham Pub Bombing Inquests, the Manchester Arena Inquiry and the ongoing Covid Inquiry, our team is dedicated to advocating for justice, accountability, and systemic change. If you would like to have a conversation about where to start with seeking public inquiry legal representation, we encourage you to get in touch. 

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What is a public inquiry?   

Public inquiries, established by the Inquiries Act 2005, are government-sanctioned investigations into issues of major public interest. Although these inquiries are initiated by the government, they operate independently to ensure unbiased examination and recommendations. They scrutinise significant tragedies and play a crucial role in the UK’s democratic process, addressing important events related to public health and safety concerns and making recommendations for improvement.

These proceedings are not only about uncovering facts but also about understanding the underlying causes and consequences of significant events or systemic failures.

While public inquiries are not criminal proceedings, they play a crucial role in delivering justice, providing closure, and ensuring that past errors are not repeated.

Our team of specialised legal experts is experienced in campaigning for public inquiries and advocating on behalf of those who are seeking the answers they deserve. Public inquiries are complex by nature, but with our experience representing the bereaved in some of the most high-profile public inquiries in British history, we are able to navigate these difficult legal processes all while making sure that the interests of you and your loved ones are front and centre.

Public inquiries are comprehensive, often involving examination of evidence, witness testimonies, and expert analyses. They relate to a wide range of public issues some of which include:

Why do we have public inquiries?   

Public inquiries are distinct from other investigations due to their transparency and public participation. They are typically open to the public, and the findings are published, ensuring a thorough and visible process. By involving all concerned parties, these inquiries gather insights and testimonies from multiple perspectives, leading to clear and comprehensive conclusions. 

Recommendations made by inquiries are often enforced, leading to major improvements in systems and processes that prevent future disasters. Additionally, the public nature of inquiries encourages media coverage, amplifying the voices of those affected and often silenced, raising awareness about critical societal issues.

The INQUEST No More Deaths campaign is looking to further reinforce the effectiveness of inquiry recommendations through the introduction of a National Oversight Mechanism. This is an independent body that ensures accountability and transparency by monitoring the implementation of recommendations from public inquiries and investigations, aiming to prevent future incidents through systematic follow-up and reporting. Broudie Jackson Canter wholeheartedly supports the No More Deaths campaign, and we encourage you to visit the INQUEST website to find out about the vital work they do, you can do so here.  

We recognise the profound impact that public inquiries can have on communities and individuals. Our role is to provide expert legal guidance and support to ensure that these inquiries are conducted fairly and effectively, giving voice to those affected and contributing to meaningful change.