Police complaints solicitors

Police complaints solicitors

The police have an essential role to play in upholding law and order, and we should be able to rely on them to behave appropriately. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. In some instances, our treatment at the hands of the police falls short of what we expect. And unfortunately, this can have serious consequences, ranging from financial losses and reputational damage to serious physical injuries.

Thankfully, if you have suffered mistreatment at the hands of the police, there are steps you can take to seek redress. This includes making a police complaint. By following the police complaints process, you can draw attention to your mistreatment and ensure the police force responsible takes action, including making a formal apology or disciplining the officers involved.

Read on below to learn more about police complaints, including the process involved and the potential outcomes, as well as how you can seek compensation through a civil action against the police.

How do I claim?

Step 1

Get in contact by using one of our contact forms throughout the site.

Step 2

We will arrange a free consultation with you to discuss your claim.

Step 3

If you have a valid claim, we will accept your case on a No Win No Fee basis.

Step 4

HNK Client Settles for over £7,000 in False Imprisonment and Assault Case Against Leicestershire Police

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What are police complaints?

Police complaints are a way of formally drawing attention to misbehaviour by police officers, often referred to as police misconduct. This misconduct can take a variety of forms, including:

In each of these circumstances, the police have failed to meet the standards expected of them as set out in the Standards of Professional Behaviour. Needless to say, the consequences for those affected can be severe.

By making a police complaint, you are asking the police force responsible to investigate the matter fully. The police are required to assess your complaint in an appropriate way and contact you to explain what steps they will be taking.

What is the police complaints process?

The police complaints process begins with you complaining directly to the police force responsible for the misconduct. There are a number of ways you can do this. You can:

  • Write directly to the police force responsible – every police force has a complaints page on their website that will inform you about where to send the complaint and what information to include
  • Complain in person at your local police station
  • Call 101 to complain over the phone

You should then receive an initial acknowledgement of your complaint (usually within three weeks). This will be used to clarity any additional details of your complaint and ask you what your desired outcome would be – for instance, you might want disciplinary action to be taken or a formal apology.

If your complaint requires investigation by the force’s professional standards department, you should be updated every 28 days at a minimum during this process. You will then be informed once the investigation has been concluded.

For more serious cases, your complaint may be referred to the IOPC for a full investigation. This must happen in cases that have led to deaths or serious injuries or which involve accusations of corruption.

What are the potential outcomes of a police complaint?

There are a number of outcomes your police complaint might have, including:

  • An explanation of what took place
  • An apology on behalf of the force
  • The officer(s) responsible undertaking further training
  • Changes to the force’s policies and procedures

For more serious cases, the officers responsible may be subject to disciplinary proceedings. In the case of police gross misconduct, this may result in their dismissal from the force.

Regardless of the outcome of your police complaint, you should receive an overview of how this decision was reached and the process that was used for handling your complaint. In many cases, you will receive a copy of the investigation report, which should clearly establish how your complaint was investigated.

Can I seek compensation for police misconduct?

As you can see, whatever the outcome of your police complaint, you will not receive compensation. If you have suffered damages due to this incident, you may understandably be unsatisfied with this.

After all, police misconduct can lead to a range of significant and traumatic outcomes, many of which will result in financial losses on your behalf. For instance, you may find yourself unable to work for a period of time or struggle with ongoing anxiety and distress that require treatment.

However, you do have the right to seek compensation for police misconduct through a different process. Instead of (or in addition to) making a police complaint, you can take the police force responsible to court through a civil action against the police. If it is found that you have suffered actionable damages due to police misconduct, you may be awarded compensation in recognition of this.

What is the process for seeking compensation for police misconduct?

To seek compensation through a civil action against the police, we would highly recommend  the support of an experienced solicitor. They will be able to assess your case and use their thorough knowledge of the relevant regulations to identify if you are entitled to compensation.

The solicitor will then gather the necessary evidence to support your case – including any incident reports, CCTV footage, medical records or witness statements – while you focus on recovering from the incident. If you work with a solicitor that specialises in actions against the police, they will be able to provide tailored support based on an in-depth understanding of the impact police misconduct can have.

HNK Solicitors can help you secure compensation for police misconduct

Making a police complaint can be an important step to ensuring that your mistreatment by the police is acknowledged and that steps are taken to ensure it does not happen again. However, if you have suffered from damages as a result of the experience, you may be disheartened to discover you will not be able to receive compensation as a result of a police complaint.

However, by working with an experienced action against the police solicitors like HNK Solicitors, you can secure the compensation you deserve and begin to move on with your life. Our team of experts have helped many clients to seek compensation following an experience of police misconduct. Take a look at our case studies to see the kinds of outcomes our highly experienced solicitors have achieved.

If you’d like to discuss your case with one of our team, we offer free consultations with no obligation to make a claim. Simply call us on 0151 668 0809, or email us at enquiries@hnksolicitors.com to get started.

Free Consultation

Contact us today to arrange a free no-obligation discussion about your police complaint or police misconduct claim.

No-Win-No-Fee

We can accept instruction on a no-win, no-fee basis, so it won’t cost you a penny upfront to start your action against the police claim.

Get The Outcome You Desire

Our expert lawyers will fight the police complaint on your behalf, to get the outcome you desire.

FAQ

The length of the police complaints process will depend on various factors, including the seriousness and complexity of the complaint you are making and whether it needs to be referred to the IOPC. However, you should be updated regularly on the progress of your complaint – at least once every 28 days – using your preferred method of communication (e.g., email, phone, letter).

Yes, if you are unsatisfied with the outcome of your complaint you can ask for it to be reviewed. You should be informed about your right to a review when you are notified of the outcome of the investigation, as well as the process for requesting one. You have 28 days after receiving the outcome letter to request a review. Further, if you’re not satisfied with the outcome of your complaint, it’s important to remember that you can also seek compensation through a civil action against the police. By taking the police force responsible to court, you may be able to secure compensation to help offset the damages you’ve experienced.

There is no formal time limit for making a police complaint. However, it is better to do it as soon as possible after the incident. This will make investigating your complaint and gathering any necessary evidence easier, and make it more likely you will be satisfied with the outcome. Further, if you are complaining more than 12 months after the incident, you may be asked to explain the delay.

Anyone who is dissatisfied with their experience at the hands of the police or believes they have been a victim of police misconduct is entitled to make a police complaint. You can also make a complaint on behalf of someone else, but they must give you permission in writing to do so. Finally, you can complain on behalf of a child aged 16 or under if you are their parent or guardian.

No, the IOPC does not accept direct complaints. Instead, they stipulate that all complaints must be dealt with by the police force responsible in the first instance. The force may refer the complaint to the IOPC themselves if this is appropriate – in some cases, such as if the incident led to a death or a serious injury, they are required to do so. If you do submit a complaint through the IOPC website, they will forward this on to the relevant police force for it to be dealt with.

Let us know what you’re looking for and we will get back to you as soon as we can.rnrn

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Name
Terms & Conditions
melanie sherringtonmelanie sherrington
15:25 07 Feb 25
Mr Wharton has been very helpful with supporting me with my case. He has been professional, knowledgeable, and very understanding. I would recommend Higgs Newton Kenton Solicitors.
J LJ L
14:40 30 Jan 25
Avoid HNK SOLICITORS They work with the POLICE.The most unprofessional firm, don’t believe there good reviews.They work alongside police, delay your case with the pretense they’re still investigating your case whilst liasing with the police especially on serious cases eventually telling you haven’t got a case, whilst they get payed.I’ve transferred my case to another solicitors firm if you are already entangled with this mess of a firm do this before they waste 12 months or more of your time then you’ll be given an excuse.My case was clear as day raided/attacked by 12 riot police officers, property then searched nothing found left with no apology no care for my care concern or injuries just left however that metropolitan police for you.Michelle Mcman wasted 12 months with my case lack of communication one day I called in 12 times and couldn’t get through to her continuously told by the receptionist no nones available.Avoid this company at all cost there Co-owner Craig Newton, doesn’t even apologise even when he’s solicitors are in the wrong but make excuses for them.This solicitors firm is based around gaining as much money as possible, no form professionalism or empathy.I doubt there even actual solicitors within this firm with experience and knowledge with decent customer service .Michelle Mcman contacted me twice verbally within the whole twelve months and handful of times via email.I can’t put forward across how unprofessional it is to give the police extensions without notifying the client.After numerous extensions by Michelle the police eventually gave her the body cam footage not all of it, they held back the worst parts as they do.However after numerous calls and arguments with the reception and also Michelle as she was holding back the footage saying, I need to give consent and she needs to speak to her supervisor.I was eventually emailed me the body cam footage 5 days after me being given consent same day via email, bearing in mind I’ve waited 5-6 months for footage.The receptionists are trained to say your solicitors are unavailable can we request they call you back .I heard this for a good few months.If you’re looking for a firm who deals with actions against police avoid this one with all costs.I will you going the SRA and the legal ombudsmen as this is truly unjust.My case had been transferred as of yesterdayworst firm ever……. Avoid all costs
EmersonEmerson
17:55 20 Jan 25
Awhile ago I was wrongfully arrests and for a number of reasons this completely destroyed my life. Several firms refused to take my case seriously. But HNK and Vivien Lee in particular listened to me every step of the way and did everything they could to try and make this case happen. Even though it didn't work out in the end, due to barristers not wanting to take the case, I think this is a testament to this forms character and committment to doing everything they can to help people who've been wronged by the police.
s as a
22:10 07 Jan 25
Very helpful and understanding, done a good job in getting me a damages settlement by the police, thank you HNK.
Reggie PhotoReggie Photo
17:10 13 Dec 24
HNK are an amazing solicitors firm from the first moment you make contact throughout your case they always keep you in the loop and more importantly get you the results you need. I can't see myself using any other solicitors except HNK.
S BS B
09:59 01 Dec 24
AlanAlan
16:00 14 Nov 24
So far they have helped me with 2 claims against the police & I couldn't be more happy with the service they provided. They took me through step by step & kept me updated on how things were going. I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND HNK Solicitors.
Andrew JohnsonAndrew Johnson
13:15 08 Nov 24
The team are excellent and so helpful. If I ever need help again I will be calling this brilliant team again.
Martin MccMartin Mcc
13:50 28 Oct 24
Great Service by D Higham. Communication and advocacy excellent.
Mayson LeeMayson Lee
15:26 22 Oct 24
I would give five stars but it took a tiny bit longer than expected And I have to keep their feet grounded. However, Alexandra exceeded my expectations in every possible way and went above and beyond settling my case. Very happy with the service I received would definitely use them again.
Sam LevettSam Levett
05:58 02 Oct 24
Very professional team with amazing communication, thankyou so much 🙏
Headon EnterprisesHeadon Enterprises
14:25 16 Sep 24
I received a good service from Higgs Newton Kenyon Solicitors. Although it took a little longer than expected to get a result.
K DK D
11:21 14 Sep 24
They’ve done an excellent job for me, I can’t speak highly enough of them and I wouldn’t hesitate to use their services again.
Richard JonesRichard Jones
12:32 09 Sep 24
Excellent service throughout kept me informed and advised and got me the justice I feel I deserved would definitely use again and recommend to family and friends thanks again HNK
Paul ReidPaul Reid
16:51 15 Aug 24
Good firm. Good, clear comms through the process
Iain SutherlandIain Sutherland
20:42 12 Aug 24
Excellent firm, they took my case when 5 other firms said no. very professional with great communication throughout.I would highly recommend them to anyone, they care and absolutely do their best for the best outcome possible.I cannot thank them enough for helping to bring me some closure from a horrible experience.If I could give them 6 stars I would.Thank you very much to all the people at this firm for helping and for all your hard work and also staying patient with me when I didn't understand the what when and why's.
KitcatsnzKitcatsnz
13:59 02 Aug 24
Anna SummerhayesAnna Summerhayes
16:09 01 Aug 24
Michelle and Leigha have been absolutely wonderful. They kept me updated, advised and notified me during the whole process of my claim. Michelle fought for more compensation than was originally offered resulting in me being awarded a substantial amount. The justification for me was priceless as in essence it proved an admission of guilt from the Police Force in question. I would highly recommend this company and would definitely use thier expert services again if needed. Thank you for everything ❤️
Alec MAlec M
19:00 18 Jul 24
Brilliant staff, brilliant service will be using them again very professional and helpful and a successful claim against the police for misconduct can't thank them enough
Jay DuckworthJay Duckworth
20:34 08 Jul 24
Michael from HNK Solicitors provided an excellent, straightforward, and professional service, with the outcome being very positive. Would recommend.
Gemini LoveGemini Love
12:44 02 Jul 24
I have had really good communication from start to finish. I would highly recommend them
Will RichardsWill Richards
20:51 13 Jun 24
I received clear information and updates on the case, though I was disappointed after being advised I could expect a higher level of compensation than I actually received.Nonetheless, I was happy with the friendly and helpful communication I enjoyed, and the work done on my behalf.
James ShawJames Shaw
14:06 03 Jun 24
Excellent service from HNK with a special mention to Lauren and Leigha. HNK managed to settle my claim to a satisfactory outcome. I was consulted along the way and was fully informed before making any decisions and before any action was taken. Definitely recommend
Ben StokesBen Stokes
12:43 26 Apr 24
Fantastic service throughout. Professional and knowledgeable solicitors who hold corrupt and dishonest police officers to account. Settled my case within 3 months. Made an awful situation somewhat better. Highly recommended.
imrie Michieimrie Michie
16:10 25 Apr 24
They kept me informed all the way through the process it did take time but they got me a result I will use then again and again and a special thanks to Michelle McMahon
Terry StaplesTerry Staples
14:22 25 Apr 24
Amazing and professional
Stephen ChipchaseStephen Chipchase
14:59 23 Apr 24
100% recommended, I was kept in the loop from the start and the team answered any questions I had.We had a fast resolution and should I be unfortunate enough to need solicitors in the future I won't hesitate calling HNK
Drew BellDrew Bell
11:45 04 Mar 24
Vivien was brilliant, I won my claim for damages received settling at 5k for a false arrest. She kept me in the loop and followed any instructions I gave her but at the same time she made sure I was informed enough to make certain decisions. Over all would highly recommend and definitely use these guys again if needed.
Col GilbertCol Gilbert
10:05 15 Feb 24
R MorleyR Morley
10:52 23 Jan 24
Stuck with me all the way through the start and got exactly the result I wanted and even more, didn't think I could be compensated as much due to the circumstances, thanks a lot and would recommend anyone to these services, always professional, keep up the good work.
Georgi KolevGeorgi Kolev
11:41 13 Jan 24
Exceptional Advocacy by HNK SolicitorsI am thrilled to share my outstanding experience with HNK Solicitors, who played an instrumental role in bringing action against the police on my behalf. From the outset, their professionalism and dedication were evident. HNK's expertise and strategic approach ensured a positive outcome, instilling confidence in me throughout the process. Their clear communication and genuine concern for my well-being set them apart. I highly recommend HNK Solicitors to anyone seeking expert legal representation. Thank you, HNK, for your exceptional support in securing justice.
Simon SiSimon Si
18:17 10 Jan 24
Very good service throughout, they constantly kept me in the loop and managed a very satisfactory result. I would gladly recommend their service,s to any experiencing the same sort of problems.Many thanksSimon
Loops EntLoops Ent
07:29 22 Dec 23
Very good Solicitor firm, very deligent with their approach. Was an absolute pleasure to work with as they took on my claims against the police and saw to it that a compensation was reached. However this is just one out of many potential cases so am looking forward to working with you guys again.
Dina 21Dina 21
16:35 11 Dec 23
I want to say that the experience I had with this solicitors has been very positive. As through no fault of theirs this case took alot of time.I was impressed with the end results.
Majik EMajik E
13:05 06 Dec 23
Michael Wharton kept me informed throughout my criminal injures claim and was always available for advice and reassurance. Just waiting for my claim to be paid out and that will be a satisfactory end to a traumatic event. Again a big thank you to HNK solicitors.
christian heathchristian heath
12:02 29 Nov 23
Been really helpful and quick at getting it done and processed.
Matthew HigginsMatthew Higgins
23:31 16 Nov 23
I highly recommend HNK Solicitors for their outstanding work on my case against the police. Vivian was fantastic, providing constant support and making the process much more comfortable. Thanks to the excellent teamwork between her and Alex, we won the case. If you've been wronged by the police, HNK Solicitors are the ones to call.
Being the first time having to fight a case against the police I was a bit apprehensive with what the outcome may of been but my solicitor demi was kind and professional and always made me feel at ease every time i spoke to her. I can't thank her enough for the work she put into fighting my case and having Alex as my barrister who I was extremely impress with how he handled my case was a true blessing. So grateful for them both and I have and would forever recommend anyone to work with the firm. Thanks again 😊
Milly FergusonMilly Ferguson
10:15 19 Oct 23
I would highly recommend!! Got my claim sorted out within months
Cw CwCw Cw
20:21 06 Oct 23
Lindsey FrancisLindsey Francis
14:33 29 Sep 23
Amazing service. prompt, successful and professional throughout. Would highly recommend.
unomeunome
17:07 25 Sep 23
I thank all involved in processing my claim successfuly. Everyone was professional,helpful and polite.
DD
14:05 16 Sep 23
I took legal action against the police who had falsified evidence against me. I have no criminal record or history of wrong doing. Unlawful arrest, Imprisonment and use of force. With help from this legal firm I was awarded £££££££ in damages. Very Professional and they assured, and informed me throughout the full process.
_ MediaNPTGwent_ MediaNPTGwent
12:25 08 Sep 23
Have sought the help of Higgs Newton Kenyon Solicitors on a number of cases now, and they've been nothing but attentive and helpful at getting me the best outcome. Would highly recommend
Rob MarchantRob Marchant
18:39 29 Aug 23
Very satisfied with service provided to me! Would highly recommend this company to all ! Robert w Marchant.
Scott LPScott LP
15:09 26 Aug 23
They are lawyers, so $$$ is their only agenda and, thus, when we refused the offer of compensation in favour of a public apology, they ended up defending the perpetrators out of spite. Unethical is an understatement.
Courtney LvizCourtney Lviz
10:32 22 Aug 23
I am extremely satisfied with the exceptional service provided by Higgs Newton Kenyon solicitors. Their dedicated work and professionalism in handling my case led to a successful settlement that brought great relief. The team's commitment to excellence is truly impressive, and I appreciate their efforts. I highly recommend their services and am grateful for their support. Thank you, HNK solicitors!- Courtney LV
Hits1791Hits1791
15:35 14 Aug 23
Excellent professionalism and outcome by Michelle McMahon, thank you.
FullStop BanditFullStop Bandit
16:24 05 Aug 23
Steer clear of Vivien Lee unless you are motivated purely and exclusively by undiluted greed and amorality.
Anthony SmithAnthony Smith
01:43 26 Jul 23
I must have drawn the short straw if all these positive reviews are authentic.My own case was handled mainly by para legals. Who displayed very little skill, or real knowledge of the law, and definitely lacked any kind of commitment. I received only one phone call in the three years it took them to 'resolve ' my case.The treatment I received from this firm was barely adequate. If you are thinking of using HNK my advice is find someone else. Unless you don't mind wasting three years of your life for very little in the way of compensation.
Very promising. Will update once completed.
Ankur deswalAnkur deswal
17:34 17 Jul 23
Such a wonderful experience with them.Excellent services got such a friendly people thanks HNK .. 🙏🙏
Turner carlTurner carl
22:34 09 Jul 23
I've learned a lot from life. Even if you are decent, humble, and honest to guys, it doesn't guarantee that they will treat you similarly. I've been married to my spouse for about six years and didn't know he was cheating. I chose to confide in a friend after noticing some changes in his behavior, and they connected me with a hacker by the name of DAVID WILFRED. By remotely hacking and gaining access to his phone call log, Facebook, Messenger messages, phone texts, WhatsApp, Skype, database, and other items, this guy did an amazing and excellent work for me. You can get in touch with this active hacker at (digitaltechhacker @ gmail com).
Kelsea NaismithKelsea Naismith
21:21 03 Jul 23
My solicitors name was Micheal Wharton, he done an amazing job in helping me with my case. He treated me with empathy, respect, and compassion. He is very understanding and kept me up to date with any updates/changes every step of the way. His communication skills are amazing, and he made me feel at ease when talking about my case and reassured me when I was worried.I would highly recommend Micheal Wharton as your solicitor he is very good at what he does and is very professional at all times whilst providing excellent support and advice.I can't thank Micheal enough for everything he has done for me.
Ellen BrownEllen Brown
08:39 31 May 23
Positive service. Treated me with kindness and respect. Didn't make me uncomfortable whilst doing their enquiries.Kept me in the loop at all times and helped me come to a decision that best suited me.Thank you to Michael Wharton for making the effort to help me 🙂
Al TommoAl Tommo
20:09 19 May 23
Very good service, couldn’t be happier with how they handled my claim and we also got justice and compensated rightly! 5 stars 10/10 does what it says on the tin thank you to the team at Hicks Newton Kenyon
brian morhanbrian morhan
17:01 26 Apr 23
Absolutely brilliant. They kept me in the loop throughout the process. I am very happy with the result. Very professional team. I would 100 percent recommend them. Thank you Michael.
amber-marie shoemarkamber-marie shoemark
16:30 24 Feb 23
Highly recommend using higgs Newton Kenyon solicitors I most definitely got my justice I deserved could not of done it with out Michael support I got the support and help the very first day Michael got in contact with me and all the support carried on all the way to the last day
M EdgertonM Edgerton
13:29 30 Jan 23
I contacted Higgs Newton Kenyon over a distressing experience with the police and feeling very vulnerable. Lynne Hughes helped me with my case and was really understanding and empathetic. It meant a lot to have someone speak for me and the outcome of the case was better than I expected. Thanks to their service I have been able to put this experience behind me and move on.Would recommend.
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