Inquest lawyers for families after a death in custody and care

We know how difficult it can be to lose a loved one in any circumstances. When you have to navigate legal proceedings such as an inquest on top, this can make things feel even more stressful and confusing. We have a dedicated and compassionate team of lawyers who can help you through this process.

An inquest is often the only route to finding answers if you have experienced the death of a loved one. If they died whilst they were held in a state run facility or they were or should have been receiving support from state agencies in the community, then funding is often available for legal representation for family members in the inquest hearing.

We can represent you (subject to certain restrictions) if there are inquest proceedings for a family member where their death occurred:

1. In an immigration referral centre (immigration detention)

2. A prison

3. Police custody

4. A mental health hospital

5. In the community where someone was being supported or should have been supported by local authorities (e.g. through adult or child social services) or mental health services.

Where deaths occur in these circumstances, they will most likely be “Article 2” inquests, because the deaths might have been caused by actions or omissions of state bodies. We only represent the families of those who have died, and never state bodies.

We can assist you to obtain legal aid funding for representation at the inquest, if the inquest meets the right criteria. We will ensure that you are provided with support throughout the process, including with any other investigations that might run alongside the inquest, and help you to uncover any unanswered questions you have. We can also advise you on pursuing a claim for compensation arising out of the inquest.

Do I need a lawyer for to represent me in an inquest?

It’s up to you if you would like representation. State parties are often represented, and it can take away some of the stress and burden to have your own legal team to ask questions on your behalf and help you to review documents and make legal arguments as needed.

What happens in an inquest?

In an inquest, particularly one that is being held as an Article 2 (of the European Convention on Human Rights) compliant inquest, the Coroner will be conducting an investigation into the circumstances of an individual’s death. This means there will be a hearing in which witnesses will attend and give evidence. If you are a family member of the deceased, you will likely be recognised as an interested person, and have an opportunity to ask questions of these witnesses. You will also be able to review any relevant documents that are provided in the course of the inquest.

Is funding available for inquests?

Where an inquest is determined to be an Article 2 inquest, then non means tested legal aid funding is often available to fund representation in the inquest for family members.

If you would like to speak to someone about representation for an inquest, we will be happy to give you a call to discuss your options and see how best we might be able to help. You can either complete a contact request form on our website or call 020 8808 7535 and ask to be put through to the public law and human rights department.

We are members of the Inquest Lawyers Group.

‍