Inquests & Inquiries

We often want to know why things happened, even when we know we cannot change what is in the past. This is particularly true when it is not clear why someone we care about has died.

Where the cause of someone's death is uncertain, the Coroner has to be involved. The Coroner is appointed to conduct Inquests, which are public investigations into what caused the person's death. Inquests are held in the Coroner's Court and can be very distressing because they are formal legal procedures. We have helped many clients through the Inquest process and can help you as well. We will be able to make sure that your views are properly represented and help you to understand the conclusions the Coroner makes.

Inquiries are different. While they are also formal legal investigations and involve calling witnesses and evidence, they are set up to investigate a specific event or series of events that are of public concern. Michelmores has extensive knowledge and experience of how Inquiries are conducted, having been appointed as lead solicitors to the Bristol Royal Infirmary Inquiry (sometimes known as the 'Bristol Heart Babies' Inquiry). If you are involved in an Inquiry you should get in touch with us to find out how we could help you ensure that your concerns are addressed.

If you would like to discuss a medical negligence claim relating to inquests and inquiries in confidence, please contact us for discreet and impartial advice.