The Inquiries Practice Group comprises a team of solicitors dedicated to assisting and representing the Crown Solicitor's clients at inquests and all forms of inquiry, and in relation to matters involving investigatory processes. The group also offers the services of three solicitor advocates who provide highly specialised and cost-effective advocacy services.
The Inquiries team specialises in inquisitorial proceedings and the law relating to investigations, and has particular expertise in the following areas:

Coronial Inquests and Inquiries

The group's lawyers have assisted the State Coroner and her deputies in some of the most complex and high-profile inquests in New South Wales, covering a range of scenarios including deaths during the course of police operations and in police custody, suspicious deaths, and deaths involving medical issues. The group also has extensive experience representing Government departments and statutory bodies at coronial inquests and coronial inquiries into fires and explosions.

Inquiries, including Special Commissions

Our lawyers have represented interested parties and assisted in inquisitorial proceedings such as Special Commissions of Inquiry, and hearings before the Independent Commission against Corruption. Members of the group have also assisted the Judicial Commission in inquiries into complaints against judicial officers.

Forensic Procedures and Search Warrants

The group's lawyers have advised on the scope of police powers under the Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act 2002 and the Crimes (Forensic Procedures) Act 2000, and represented clients in relation to challenges to orders made under those Acts.

In addition to the areas outlined above, the Inquiries Practice Group has substantial experience in the law relating to other investigatory issues, including:

Listening and surveillance devices;
Telecommunications investigations;
DNA evidence.

Clients requiring additional information on the work of the Inquiries Practice Group should contact A/Assistant Crown Solicitor, Catherine Follent on (02) 9224 5169. Clients who would like a copy of the Inquiries Practice Group profile, which details solicitors' background and experience and support staff contact details, should e-mail csomarketing@agd.nsw.gov.au.