Legal advice and assistance before the hearing - via the Legal Help Scheme - is available if you qualify financially. Legal Help can be used, for example, to assist you in the preparation of a list of written questions that you wish the Coroner to explore with other witnesses.
Unlike other proceedings for which legal aid might be available, there are no parties in inquests, only 'interested persons', and witnesses are not expected to present legal arguments. Legal aid is not generally available for representation at the inquest, but can be provided in exceptional cases. Generally, you must qualify financially and your application must meet strict criteria for representation to be funded exceptionally.
To find out if you qualify for legal aid you will need to contact the Civil Legal Advice line 0845 345 4345.
You can find information about which solicitors undertake legally aided work by visiting The Law Society also provides a database of solicitors, which you can access by calling 020 7242 1222 or by visiting
Further information on legal aid is available online at
