What is a public inquiry?

Public inquiries are large-scale investigations that look into matters of "public concern". The purpose of an inquiry is to determine what happened, who is to blame and what steps can be taken to stop it from happening again. If appropriate, an inquiry may allow for victims to claim compensation. Many public enquiries have taken place in recent decades. Examples include inquiries into the Hillsborough disaster, the Alder Hey organ retention scandal and the Iraq War. Public inquiries are funded by the government but are conducted independently.

Why are public inquiries important?

Public inquiries are important because they help us learn lessons and avoid repeating mistakes that might put the public at risk. Often, public inquiries address tragedies or scandals that have affected a large number of people. By convening an inquiry, we recognise the scale of these events and put them under the scrutiny they deserve. It's important to note that public inquiries are non-adversarial – unlike court proceedings, there are no "winners and losers". While an inquiry may point the finger of blame at certain people or organisations, its primary purpose is to establish the facts and make recommendations for the future.

How long does a public inquiry take?

Public inquiries must, by their nature, be rigorous and thorough. So their duration is highly dependent on the scale and complexity of the events being investigated. On average, they run to about two years. The longest inquiry to date took more than 13 years to complete. It would be most accurate to say "public inquiries take as long as they need to".

An inquest is a type of public inquiry that seeks to establish the facts about a person's death. Inquests are conducted in public and are overseen by a special type of judge called a coroner. Not all deaths need an inquest. Inquests are only ordered when there are unanswered questions about a death – for instance, if the deceased person died in a road accident, because of medical negligence or as the result of a crime. An inquest aims to find answers to questions like "who was the deceased person?" and "how did they die?". It can't legally deal with issues of blame or criminal liability. Inquests can be tough for the family and friends of the deceased person. We can offer expert legal advice and friendly support to help guide you through this difficult process.

Public inquiry and inquest solicitors

We'll be your ally and make sure your voice is heard.

Public inquest solicitors

Involved in an inquest or public inquiry? Our lawyers will provide friendly, expert support and make sure your voice is heard.

You'll get the support you need: our experienced, highly rated team is dedicated to achieving the best result for you.

You'll know what's happening: as far as we're concerned, it's our job to make the law simple, straightforward and easy to understand.

You'll have our number: we don't hide behind paperwork – we'll give you the direct phone number of the lead solicitor on your case.

Our expert solicitors provide specialist support for interested parties at inquests and public inquiries.

Whether you've suffered harm or lost a loved one, we're here to make sure you get the answers – and compensation – you deserve.

Our team has represented core participants and interested parties at high-profile public inquiries, as well as inquests and other fact-finding hearings.

It can be a challenging experience. But we've been through it – and we'll be by your side every step of the way.

This means providing friendly support and expert advice before, during and after formal hearings. Our job is to make sense of legal jargon and make sure you have your say.

Our expert solicitors provide specialist support for interested parties at inquests and public inquiries.

Whether you've suffered harm or lost a loved one, we're here to make sure you get the answers – and compensation – you deserve.

Our team has represented core participants and interested parties at high-profile public inquiries, as well as inquests and other fact-finding hearings.

It can be a challenging experience. But we've been through it – and we'll be by your side every step of the way.

This means providing friendly support and expert advice before, during and after formal hearings. Our job is to make sense of legal jargon and make sure you have your say.

We find simple solutions to complex legal problems.

Legal issues demand time, energy and expertise. But that's what we're here for.

When you choose Milners, we work hard to solve complex legal problems so you can focus on doing business.

Our team has years of experience in corporate law – and a reputation for speed, accuracy and success. You can expect tailored, proactive advice that's driven by commercial common sense and has your best interests at heart.

We look forward to forging a long-lasting and fruitful relationship.

How we can help

Public inquiry representation

Have you been affected by an event that's being investigated in a public inquiry? Our experienced public inquiry solicitors will make sure you get the answers and the support you need.

Participating in an inquiry can be daunting. Most of us go through life without ever needing to take part. So if you're one of the affected few, it's natural to feel confused and overwhelmed.

We're here to provide friendly support and advice so you can proceed with confidence. Our lawyers will explain legal matters in straightforward, jargon-free language and ensure your concerns are properly addressed.

This is your chance to have your say – we make sure your voice is heard.

Inquest representation

Inquests are there to provide answers – but that doesn't make them any easier for those involved. We'll provide friendly, expert advice through every step of the process.

We understand how difficult inquests can be, especially if you're grieving.

Consider us a friendly, supportive ally. Our inquest lawyers will help you make sense of legal jargon and ensure your concerns are addressed, as well as provide much-needed support.

This includes assisting you with meetings, representing you at the hearing and providing specialist help if the media gets involved.

Together, we can get the answers you need.

Get expert, friendly support when you most need it.

We know that seeking legal advice can be daunting. But don't worry – we're here to fight your corner.

Our experienced inquiry and inquest lawyers pride themselves on their speed, teamwork and flexibility. We put all our strength behind you, providing tailored help and friendly support to make sure you have your say.

We're a friendly bunch too. Whether you need some ad-hoc advice or simply an update, we'll be there to provide it.

Book your free consultation

Our support comes at a sensible price.

Inquests and inquiries can be tough. We know the last thing you want to worry about is legal fees.

We're here to support you. And that means offering advice at an accessible price.

When you work with us, you can trust us to be transparent and straight-talking – with no hidden costs or needless "extras".

Book your free, no-obligation consultation today.

Frequently asked questions

What is a public inquiry?

Public inquiries are large-scale investigations that look into matters of "public concern". The purpose of an inquiry is to determine what happened, who is to blame and what steps can be taken to stop it from happening again. If appropriate, an inquiry may allow for victims to claim compensation.

Many public enquiries have taken place in recent decades. Examples include inquiries into the Hillsborough disaster, the Alder Hey organ retention scandal and the Iraq War.

Public inquiries are funded by the government but are conducted independently.
Why are public inquiries important?

Public inquiries are important because they help us learn lessons and avoid repeating mistakes that might put the public at risk.

Often, public inquiries address tragedies or scandals that have affected a large number of people. By convening an inquiry, we recognise the scale of these events and put them under the scrutiny they deserve.

It's important to note that public inquiries are non-adversarial – unlike court proceedings, there are no "winners and losers". While an inquiry may point the finger of blame at certain people or organisations, its primary purpose is to establish the facts and make recommendations for the future.
How long does a public inquiry take?

Public inquiries must, by their nature, be rigorous and thorough. So their duration is highly dependent on the scale and complexity of the events being investigated.

On average, they run to about two years. The longest inquiry to date took more than 13 years to complete.

It would be most accurate to say "public inquiries take as long as they need to".
What is an inquest?

An inquest is a type of public inquiry that seeks to establish the facts about a person's death. Inquests are conducted in public and are overseen by a special type of judge called a coroner.

Not all deaths need an inquest. Inquests are only ordered when there are unanswered questions about a death – for instance, if the deceased person died in a road accident, because of medical negligence or as the result of a crime.

An inquest aims to find answers to questions like "who was the deceased person?" and "how did they die?". It can't legally deal with issues of blame or criminal liability.

Inquests can be tough for the family and friends of the deceased person. We can offer expert legal advice and friendly support to help guide you through this difficult process.