Public inquiries, inquests and investigations
Investigations and inquiries are an increasing feature of public
life. They come in a variety of forms. Some investigations have
statutory powers while others are carried out on an ad hoc,
informal basis. Some are triggered by government policy while
others are commissioned when something has gone wrong, and public
confidence has been damaged.
Investigations and inquiries can be highly emotive and the
subject matter is likely to be both sensitive and high profile.
Communicating with stakeholders including victims, families, the
media, politicians, police forces or other authorities is central
to helping allay their feelings of injustice or anger.
As the number of public inquiries tends to increase in tough
times, it becomes more important to conduct such proceedings with
efficiency and clarity, as inquiries are for the benefit of the
public, but also at the expense of the public purse.
Our service
We can offer the Chairman of the inquiry the benefit of our
comparative experience from previous inquiries and investigations,
advising on how the inquiry process should run and how timelines
can be met.
If you are a commercial organisation or regulator who is a Core
Participant to an inquiry we can offer you support throughout the
process and advise you on the best way to deal with requests for
witnesses or statements and evidence that you may receive from an
investigation or inquiry.
Our experience
We are consistently ranked in the first tier in the leading
legal directories for administrative and public law, which reflects
our highly regarded reputation for assisting public inquiries and
conducting investigations and reviews. We can:
- conduct audits or independent reviews
- act as Solicitor or Secretariat to the Inquiry or Inquest
- write terms of reference and procedural rules for inquiries and
investigations
- manage, interview and take statements from witnesses
- advise on the processes of the Inquiry, document management,
avoiding judicial review and media handling
- advise on evidence, powers and duties, and fair process
- advise on human rights, freedom of information and data
protection