Public Inquiries: A Quick Guide For Potential Witnesses

Public inquiries have consistently made headlines in recent months.  This type of inquiries typically focuses on major incidents that have significantly impacted a large number or group of people.  They often involve vast amounts of documentary evidence and numerous witnesses.  Additionally, public inquiries differ from ordinary criminal or civil proceedings in that they seek to establish facts rather than attribute liability: they are inquisitorial rather than adversarial in nature. Nonetheless, giving evidence in an inquiry can be a daunting prospect.  This guide aims to provide an introduction to public inquiries for the benefit of those who have been involved in events under examination by an inquiry and might therefore be contacted to give evidence.