Investigations

Chambers has a depth of experience working on independent investigations away from the more forensic forum of traditional inquisitorial processes such as inquests and inquiries. In this context, members use their core skills – thorough analysis of the evidence, focused questioning and the provision of clear written conclusions – to deliver an outstanding service to clients.

Chambers is recognised as having strength across a broad range of practice areas – including clinical negligence, education, employment, environment, personal injury, adult and child safeguarding, public law and tax, professional discipline and sport. This enables us to handle issues calling for investigation in a wide range of sectors and to represent a diverse client base. This client base typically includes central and local government; private, public, third sector and faith-based organisations; police forces; prisons; NHS and transport bodies; insurers; media companies; schools and universities; medical professionals; healthcare, regulatory and governing bodies.

Members with employment law experience regularly conduct investigations into allegations of bullying, discrimination, harassment and other forms of misconduct in the workplace. They also advise on policies and processes addressing such issues.

Recent high-profile investigations and reviews involving members of chambers include:

• The McCullough Review – an independent review into the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s use of covert surveillance of journalists, lawyers, ngos and regulators, following concerns raised in IPT proceedings;
• The Forde Report – commissioned by Labour’s NEC, into the party’s handling of allegations of antisemitism;
• Operation Kenova – a nine-year investigation into the activities of a British Army agent, code named “Stakeknife” who tortured and murdered while operating inside the provisional IRA during the Troubles;
• Operation Mizzenmast – independent investigation into the death of Jean Smyth-Campbell;
• Operation Denton – independent review of the Glenanne Gang Series of crimes and related allegations of collusion;
• Intelligence Services Commissioner investigation into Michael Adebolajo into torture allegations and HMG’s responsibilities when working with with overseas counter-terrorism partners;
• Report led by Intelligence Services Commissioner – arising out of the murder of Fusilier lee Rigby – into HMG’s responsibilities when working with or sharing information with partner counter-terrorism units overseas; and
• Investigation into Jimmy Savile’s conduct at Broadmoor Hospital.

In episode 234 of Law Pod UK, Marina Wheeler KC joins Jim Duffy to discuss investigations and explore how barristers’ skill sets can help determine what has happened and why, increasing the prospects of a swift resolution and a clean break. Listen to the full episode here.

A number of members accept instructions on a direct access basis.