Inquests & Public Inquiries
UK Bar Guide 2025 : The Regions (Bar)
Band 1
Email address
[email protected]Contact number
(0161) 214 6000Chambers Review
Manchester-based Deans Court Chambers possesses a long track record in handling complex and sensitive inquests. The set's barristers are sought after throughout the North West by commercial entities, notably in the care sector, and by local authorities, central government, healthcare practitioners or the police. In addition, members are instructed as counsel to the coroner or chair in many of the most prominent inquests and public inquiries taking place in the region and nationwide. Members of the set recently represented parties in the inquest into the death of Jessica Cronshaw and Elsie Leck.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"Deans Court has extremely helpful clerks, the most helpful that I have ever come across."
"Deans Court has extremely helpful clerks, the most helpful that I have ever come across."
Notable Practitioners
Sophie Cartwright KC is revered for her superb knowledge of coronial law, leading to her frequent appointment as counsel to the inquiry in high-profile inquests or public inquiries.
"Sophie is among the current generation of leading inquiry lawyers. She's brilliant, extremely clever and sensitive to inquest work."
"Sophie is the standout silk nationally for inquiries and inquests. All she does is high-end work of national importance. She is phenomenal - one of the best advocates in the field."
"Sophie Cartwright KC is an incredibly thorough and diligent advocate."
Virginia Hayton is instructed by local authorities across the North West. She has strong knowledge of health and safety matters, and has acted in numerous inquests involving issues of social care or policing.
"Virginia is a really great junior who is very heavily relied on by local authorities. They really like working with her because she's a steady pair of hands."
Elizabeth Dudley-Jones is a highly sought-after barrister for representation in sensitive inquests. She acts on behalf of police forces and local authorities as well as healthcare providers. She is well versed in Article 2 inquests involving allegations of medical negligence, and those concerning deaths in custody.
"I have always found Elizabeth to be very thorough and a great advocate. She is excellent with witnesses."
Peter Smith draws strength from his health and safety practice to represent business clients, including employers and care providers, at related inquests.
"Peter Smith is a strong and pragmatic advocate. He's good at distilling complicated matters and presenting them in a straightforward way."
Tom Gent acts for individuals, companies and care providers as well as local authorities in a range of inquests. He is particularly well equipped to handle matters with a health and safety law crossover.
Joseph Hart is instructed in sensitive inquests focusing on accidents in the workplace. In addition to counsel work, he sits as an assistant coroner.
"Joseph Hart is super. He's a calm and collected individual."
Ranked Barristers at
Deans Court Chambers
Silks (KC)
The Regions (Bar)
Juniors
The Regions (Bar)