Areas of Expertise
Inquests, Public Inquiries & Internal Investigations
Sustained scrutiny without a guilty verdict still carries permanent consequence. We represent individuals, families and organisations at inquests, statutory inquiries and serious internal investigations across England and Wales.
Why timing decides outcome
Why Specialist Representation Matters
The decisions made at the police station, the experts instructed in the days that follow, and the quality of preparation from first contact through to trial will determine the outcome. We understand what is at stake from the moment you call.
Chess Law Solicitors acts for clients across all major cities in England and Wales. We combine solicitor and barrister expertise within a single, continuous strategy — ensuring your case is prepared and presented without any loss of direction between stages.
That structure matters more in murder and manslaughter cases than in almost any other area of criminal law. When a forensic pathologist, psychiatric expert, or digital forensic specialist needs to be instructed, that happens at the outset — at the point of arrest or charge — not weeks before trial.
Our services
Our Inquest and Inquiry Services
We act for interested persons and families at inquests, for individuals called to give evidence at statutory inquiries, and for those subject to serious internal investigations that may lead to regulatory referral or criminal prosecution.
- Representing interested persons at inquests under the Coroners and Justice Act 2009
- Article 2 ECHR inquests where the state's duty to protect life is in question
- Preparing witnesses on scope, privilege and the right not to self-incriminate
- Acting in serious case reviews and safeguarding investigations following a death or serious incident
- Representing employees and managers facing disciplinary proceedings arising from inquest or inquiry findings
- Challenging the scope of an inquest or coroner's decision where unlawful
- Inquests into deaths in custody, workplace fatalities and deaths in residential care
- Advising individuals and organisations giving evidence before statutory inquiries under the Inquiries Act 2005
- Representing families of the deceased where the circumstances of death are disputed
- Advising organisations on internal investigations and protection of legally privileged material
- Advising on the interaction between inquest proceedings and civil litigation
Why Chess Law
Why Chess Law Solicitors for Inquests
Non-adversarial in name only
Article 2 readiness
Witness preparation that protects position
Managing parallel proceedings
For families seeking accountability
For organisations under scrutiny
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an inquest?
An inquest is a formal investigation conducted by a coroner into a death that was sudden, violent, unnatural, or occurred in state custody. Its purpose is to establish who died, when, where, and by what means. It does not apportion blame in the way a civil or criminal court does, but its findings can have significant consequences.
Who counts as an interested person at an inquest?
Interested persons include the family of the deceased, anyone whose conduct may be called into question, and certain public bodies or organisations connected with the death. They have the right to examine witnesses and make submissions. We advise on interested person status from the outset.
What is an Article 2 ECHR inquest?
An Article 2 inquest arises where there is arguable state responsibility for a death. It must examine not only how the death occurred but whether the authorities took all reasonable steps to prevent a death they knew, or ought to have known, was a real possibility. They are more intensive and more demanding than standard proceedings.
Do I have to give evidence at an inquest?
A coroner can summons witnesses, and a summonsed witness must attend. You cannot be compelled to give evidence that would incriminate you in criminal proceedings. Where that risk exists, we advise on how to approach examination in a way that protects your position without being obstructive.
What is a public inquiry?
A public inquiry is a formal investigation established by government to examine matters of public concern, typically following a serious incident or evidence of systemic failure. Public inquiries can compel documents and witness attendance. Findings are made public and can have lasting consequences for those mentioned adversely.
Can I claim legal privilege at a public inquiry?
Yes — legal privilege may be claimed over confidential communications between a lawyer and client made for the purpose of legal advice. Whether a document is privileged and whether privilege can be maintained against an inquiry’s request requires careful advice. We make representations to the inquiry where necessary.
What is a serious case review?
A multi-agency investigation conducted under child or adult safeguarding arrangements following a death or serious injury involving a vulnerable person. Findings can feed into subsequent criminal, regulatory or disciplinary action. We advise those named on their position and how to engage with the process.
How much does it cost to instruct a solicitor for an inquest?
Cost depends on the type of proceeding, the complexity of the issues and your role. Legal aid may be available in some inquest cases, particularly where state responsibility for a death is in question. We will advise on eligibility at your first consultation.
Speak to us now.
Whether you are a family member, a witness, or an organisation under scrutiny, specialist advice at an early stage makes a material difference. You will leave with a clear understanding of the process, your role within it and what we will do.
