New Legal Aid Category Announced to Prepare for Increase in Inquests Under Hillsborough Law

The government has announced plans for a new legal aid category for inquests, alongside a simplified fee scheme for solicitors, in preparation for a significant rise in legally aided inquests once the Hillsborough Law comes into force.

The proposals, published last week by the Ministry of Justice, are intended to support a major expansion in access to legal aid at inquests. The government estimates that the number of legally aided inquests each year could increase from around 200–400 cases to more than 11,000, as bereaved families gain automatic access to publicly funded legal representation.

The changes form part of the implementation of the Hillsborough Law. The Hillsborough Law Bill is designed to address long‑standing inequalities faced by families following a death, particularly where public authorities are involved.

Under the proposed system, bereaved families will be able to access non‑means‑tested legal aid for inquests where a public authority is an interested person. This includes funding for legal advice and advocacy, helping families to properly participate in the inquest process from the outset.

To support this expansion, the Ministry of Justice has outlined plans to:

– Introduce a new, non‑exclusive legal aid contract category for inquests, and

– Replace the current complex fee structure with a single, streamlined fee scheme, covering preparation, attendance and advocacy.

The aim is to reduce red tape and help families get the support they need more quickly and avoid delays.

Legal sector professionals have welcomed the changes, but say enough funding and expertise are needed to make them work for families.

Senior inquest and medical negligence solicitor at Howells, Jenna Kisala, said “We welcome the proposed changes, but legal aid must be backed by adequate funding and specialist expertise. Without that, families risk continuing to face delays and inequality at inquests when they need support the most.”

The consultation on the proposed legal aid changes closes on 19 June 2026, with the government expected to respond later in the year. Subject to Parliamentary approval, the Hillsborough Law is anticipated to receive approval in autumn 2026. The Hillsborough Law should be formally approved later this year, after which its legal changes (such as expanded legal aid for inquests) can be brought into effect.

For families facing an inquest, these developments represent an important step towards fairness, transparency, and a more equal footing when public bodies are involved.

Background: If you would like to understand more about what the Hillsborough Law means for families at inquests, read our guide here: Hillsborough Law – What It Means for Families and Legal Aid at Inquests.

Where to Find Support for Inquests

If an inquest has been opened you can contact Howells Solicitors for independent and free case review, where will advise you on the best next steps for your family.

If possible, we may explore funding options and apply for legal aid if your case meets the qualifying criteria.

Learn more about our Civil Liberties and Inquest team. Or if you need support preparing for or attending an inquest

Our Inquest Solicitor are led by the well-respected Michelle Gyte and team includes senior legal expert Phillipa Matthews and solicitors Jenna Kisala and Elizabeth Walton who regularly act for families at complex and Article 2 inquests. The team forms a specialist practice group that strongly believes everyone deserves access to justice.

We assist families across England and Wales, including those attending Coroner’s Courts in South Yorkshire and the surrounding regions.

Contact us on  0114 2496611 and one of our advisors will be in touch to discuss your situation.