At Nelsons, our team of expert medical negligence claims solicitors recognise that for most people, having to face the challenge of attending an Inquest into the death of a loved one is a uniquely traumatic experience.
Whilst there are no rules compelling someone to obtain representation at an Inquest, there are situations where you may wish to consider securing specialist legal help. If so, funding options are available.
Funding legal representation at an Inquest – the different options available
Conditional Fee Agreements (CFAs) or No Win, No Fee arrangements
If there are grounds to consider a clinical negligence claim arising from the circumstances of the death then it may be possible to consider a CFA or No Win No Fee agreement.
It may then be possible to cover some or all the costs associated with engaging with the Inquest process as part of that funding arrangement.
Legal expenses insurance
Some individuals may have legal expenses insurance as part of their home insurance or other policies. This insurance may cover the costs of legal representation at an inquest.
Private fee-paying
We are also able to look at offering a private fee-paying package to cover the stand-alone costs of representation at an Inquest.
Legal Aid
Legal Aid is a Government-funded program designed to help individuals who cannot afford legal representation. Eligibility is means-tested, and it may be available for inquests.
However, the availability and criteria can vary, so it’s crucial to check with the Legal Aid Agency.
Exceptional Case Funding (ECF)
There are certain types of Inquest where Article 2 of the Human Rights Act 1998 is engaged and the HM Coroner is obliged to conduct a more wide-ranging enquiry. Typically, these types of Inquest involve a death in custody or whilst somebody was being detained in a mental health unit. For these types of Inquests, ECF may be available.
Our team has a contract with the Legal Aid Agency, which allows us to apply for such funding in appropriate cases.
How can we help
Matthew Olner is a Partner in our Medical Negligence team, which is ranked in Tier One by the independently researched publication, The Legal 500, and Commended in The Times Best Law Firms 2023. Our team in Derby, Leicester or Nottingham is vastly experienced in providing legal representation at inquests.
If you would like to talk through all the funding options to ensure you get the help you need at such a difficult time, then please contact Matthew or another member of the team on 0800 024 1976 or contact us via our online form.
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