Petition · past parliament
Make inquests fair - Widen the legal aid scope for families attending inquests
Closed
128 signatures
What the petition asks
The current system for providing legal representation for families at inquests is unfair and imbalanced. The current system allows public bodies legal representation, usually at public expense. Families are left without similar access & strict tests in exceptional cases for obtaining legal aid.
We propose that legal aid should be provided to all families attending all inquests, with a fairer test on:
• Whether an individual is financially eligible, in terms of their disposable income & capital;
• Whether other interested persons attending the inquest have legal representation;
• The circumstances of the deceased’s death & complexity of the issues.
We submit that the proposed wider scope is fairer & recognises the real need for representation for all families at all inquests.
• Whether an individual is financially eligible, in terms of their disposable income & capital;
• Whether other interested persons attending the inquest have legal representation;
• The circumstances of the deceased’s death & complexity of the issues.
We submit that the proposed wider scope is fairer & recognises the real need for representation for all families at all inquests.
Timeline
| 18 Aug 2016 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 18 Feb 2017 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
128
Status
Closed
Opened
18 Aug 2016
Closed
18 Feb 2017
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.