Royal Commissions, Inquiries & Inquests

Maddocks has unparalleled experience in Royal Commissions, inquiries and coronial inquests. We’ve worked on many of Australia’s most prominent hearings, including acting for major parties in Commonwealth and State Royal Commissions, as well as assisting public and private sector clients in Parliamentary and Ombudsman Inquiries.

Our lawyers have experience in a wide variety of inquests ranging from lengthy hearings, through to investigations that have been determined on the papers. Our combined Workplace Health & Safety and Government expertise means that we can assist clients following workplace fatalities and where issues of public safety and regulatory oversight are relevant.

Our lawyers offer an excellent understanding of the law of non-curial inquiries and recognition of the practical issues, including engagement of experts, client professional privilege, contempt of court, relevant criminal provisions, and a strategic understanding of litigation and negligence issues.

While we assist clients in managing all aspects of their participation in inquiries, we also understand that these hearings often involve legal, political and public relations implications. We work closely with clients to identify and achieve their objectives in these critical areas.

We’re also aware of the great human cost of inquiries and take particular care in the management of our client’s witnesses and employees.

Find the right team to help you prepare for an inquiry, read their insights and contact them below.