Inquest Solicitors

Why Choose Howells for an Inquest?

Our expert inquest solicitors have a lot of experience helping families at complex inquests. This includes situations where the Coroner has determined that Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights applies. Article 2 is about the right to life. They also have experience corresponding with Coroners courts.

Our inquest solicitors are an important part of the medical negligence, civil liberties, and personal injury team at Howells. They can also help you understand the strengths of any potential claim if you want to seek compensation.

We can help the families of people who have died:

• Without warning.
• After contact with the police or in police custody.
• While detained under the mental health act.
• In an accident at work.
• While detained in a hospital or care home.
• In prison.
• In a road traffic accident.

We will listen to your concerns and give you the care and attention you deserve. We will then determine how best we can assist you.

If you choose us to represent you, we will look after you, as here at Howells we are committed to:

• Removing any fear, worry or mystery about the legal process.
• Communicating regularly, openly and sensitively.
• Remaining a strong, staunch and tireless advocate for your rights.

Howells work on a high volume of Inquests with families per year, and have recently worked on high profiles inquests which have involved:

• Delayed medical diagnosis resulting in death.
• Multi agency failings resulting in suicide.
• Failings by mental health professionals.
• Suspicious deaths whilst in prison.

If you believe you have a claim, we want to hear from you. Please fill out an assessment form or call us at 0114 2496611. Book your free assessment today.

Article 2 Inquests

If it is suspected that the state caused, contributed to or failed to prevent the death of a person, the Coroner will call what is known as an Article 2 inquest. The inquest will then be held under Article 2 of the European Convention of Human Rights, which means they are investigating whether the state has breached its duty of care to protect a person’s ‘right to life’.

If the Coroner decides the inquest will be held under Article 2 then the family may receive legal aid to pay for an inquest solicitor. At an Article 2 inquest, the state will likely have legal representation. It can be helpful to have legal experts on your side to make sure all the facts about your loved one’s death are investigated.

Inquest Solicitor Fees

We understand that worry about costs can be a big barrier to getting help. Don’t let it stop you. Howells are here to discuss your funding options and to take the burden and worry of the inquest away from you.

You should contact us or call us on 0114 2496611 to discuss your options.

Inquests Frequently Asked Questions

Who decides if an inquest is needed?

A doctor or the police usually tell the Coroner about a death. However, the deceased’s loved ones can contact the Coroner if they think someone should report a death.

What is the role of a Coroner?

Coroners serve as independent officers who investigate deaths reported as unexpected or suspicious. They will lead an investigation to determine the reason for the death. They have the authority to obtain witness statements, medical records and to instruct witnesses to attend hearings.

What happens during an inquest?

At an inquest, the family and those involved in the deceased’s treatment will present evidence to the Coroner.

How long does an inquest take?

The Coroner decides how long an inquest will take. This depends on several factors. These factors include the number of witnesses, the need for independent experts, and the necessity of a jury.

Client Feedback

“I would like to share my experience of a recent inquest that was held for my son. When he died I was in shock and disbelief and on top of that I was told that an inquest would be held for him at the Coroners Court.

I felt totally overwhelmed, at this stage I didn’t even know really what an inquest was or what the process was. I sent some documents to Howells and they replied very quickly and Amy Fiddler introduced herself to me. From this point on I was reassured and everything was explained to me in a way which was easy to understand. Amy’s advice throughout the whole process was clear and easy to follow. As well as being extremely professional as a solicitor Amy was also friendly and showed empathy towards my circumstances throughout.”

“For any families faced with an inquest for their loved one I would definitely recommend Howells and Amy to help you through the process, she is amazing!”

“From the moment we contacted Howells, the team were very responsive and accommodating of the assistance we needed and they supported us through both the inquest and case. They were always being proactive and constantly chasing the defendant to provide us with updates regularly (so much so that we spoke to her more than our own family!) Amy Fiddler and her team are 100% dedicated to providing the best service possible, and it shows in every interaction. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of their services.”

“I went to Howells for some advice and be represented regarding my Husbands inquest and had a meeting with Amy Fiddler. Amy has been brilliant, professional, very understanding in this difficult time for me and made me feel more at ease about going forward. I would highly recommend anyone to use Howells Solicitors.”

“Amy Fiddler is currently dealing with an inquest relating to my mother. She has been fantastic, nothing has been too much trouble. I have been kept update with absolutely everything. Going through an extremely heartbreaking time and Amy is very sympathetic and compassionate.”

“Amy Fiddler was amazing throughout, every time we had a question she was there to answer”

“Amy Fiddler has been lovely, very knowledgable, friendly and proactive. I have had quick responses from both telephone and email.”

“My son took his life in the care of care givers, mistakes were made to the lead up of his death. Howells represented my family during the inquest and after. They were compassionate, professional, and cared for my family through out this devastating time. I can only say thank you to the whole team that represented us though out.”