Public & Fatal Accident Inquiries

Compass Chambers enjoys a sterling reputation in the field of inquiries and has quickly become known among instructing solicitors as one of the "go-to stables in Scotland" for health and safety-related inquiries. The stable fields an impressive bench of advocates, both silk and junior. The team has appeared in nearly all of the major public inquiries in recent years. Notably, advocates have been instructed on the Scottish COVID-19 Inquiry, the M9 fatal accident inquiry, the inquiry into the death of Sheku Beyoh and the Scottish Hospital Inquiry. The team is frequently instructed by a range of government authorities, including police constabularies, NHS trusts, local authorities, the MoD and scrutiny bodies such as the Care Inspectorate. Additionally, the advocates also represent private and commercial parties and bereaved families.

"The clerks at Compass Chambers are really personable, attentive and helpful. We can always can get them on the phone. I'd give a special mention to Lesley Hogg, Leona Crosby and Gavin Herd."

"The clerking team are incredibly efficient and very proactive. You feel comfortable knowing that they will make sensible recommendations."

Angela Grahame KC is a renowned civil litigator and clinical negligence expert. She is recognised for her prowess in high-profile public inquiries. Most recently, she has acted as Principal Counsel to the Sheku Bayoh Public Inquiry, appointed by Lord Bracadale. "Angela Grahame KC is really tenacious and very well prepared. She has a great way of explaining things to clients. I respect and trust her advice." "Angela is a joy to watch on her feet. You're watching a master at work. It makes the hairs of the back of your neck stand up. Her skill set really is phenomenal."

Carla Fraser brings a broad range of expertise in regulatory, public, and health and safety law to inquiries. She is experienced at representing public bodies, healthcare providers and private individuals in complex and high-profile mandates. Areas of notable expertise include deaths in custody or detention and other police-related inquiries. "Carla is efficient, works quickly, communicates well and is pleasant to deal with." "On complex cases, Carla absolutely 100% gets it. She can navigate issues with the client well, provide succinct advice and work proactively."

Clare is commended for her inquiry prowess. Her broader practice encompasses both civil and criminal law, providing a strong skill set for high-profile inquiry work. She earns praise for her representation of bereaved families and private interested parties. "Clare is efficient, thorough, respectful and kind. She takes a load off of one's shoulders and provides you with everything you need." "Clare has excellent attention to detail and very good client skills." "Clare combines exceptional attention to detail and meticulous preparation, with skilled and nuanced examination of witnesses at proof. She has been exceptional in every matter that we have had her on."

Emma Toner is recognised as a leading junior for FAI and public inquiries work. In recent years, she has acted on numerous high-profile matters, including both the Scottish and UK COVID-19 inquiries and the Scottish Hospital Inquiry. She represents core participants, such as NHS bodies, the Care Inspectorate, HM Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland and high-ranking police individuals. "Emma is a well-informed and diligent junior with a keen eye for practicalities."

Murdo Macleod KC is a distinguished silk in the health and safety field and a go-to choice of counsel for Scottish public authorities and private companies. Recently, he has represented core participants in several high-stakes inquiries. Macleod is also licensed to practise as a barrister in England and Wales. "Murdo Macleod KC is very a friendly counsel who is particularly good on his feet in court. He's very good at questioning witnesses and extracting key info." "Murdo really knows what he is doing. He's very supportive of the team, great with clients and always organised." "Murdo provides excellent and wise advice across the board. He's highly skilled, effective and a pleasure to work with." "Murdo's encyclopaedic knowledge of immensely large and complex matters is particularly impressive."