Public law is the name given to the branch of law that governs the relationship between the state and individuals. Although a little known practice area the workings of public law can be seen daily in some of the most high profile news items – for example in relation to the controversial powers with regards the detention of suspected terrorists.

Ask yourself, what are the responsibilities of government officials, what is the nature of the relationship between you and state organisations such as the police or the NHS, what are their powers, rights, capacities, and duties – public law encompasses all these things. Because public law regulates some of the most fundamental rights we have in a democratic country, if you have problem arising from your dealings with a public body, you do need to ensure that have a public law expert on your side. Duncan Lewis & Co is one of the few firms large enough to have a dedicated department of public law solicitor, who can help you in connection with all public law and human rights matters.

All public bodies are governed by rules. However, that is not to say that the rules are always followed. If an error or a deliberate breach of these rules takes place it can have a devastating affect on individuals – for example if, as a result, you are detained, denied treatment or threatened with homelessness. The law has developed dramatically in the last 10 years, following the introduction of the Human Rights Act – which means that people have greater ability than ever before to ensure that the state is held to account for how it treats individuals. A Human Rights lawyer, may not only help you overturn an unfair decision made against you, but may also be able to help you recover damages to compensate you for any loss you have suffered as a result.

It is important to know your rights, but in a highly specialised field of law the only realistic way to ensure that you understand your rights is to engage expert assistance.  Duncan Lewis can provide you with all the expert help that you need – and often public funding (formerly “legal aid”) will be available so that your case can be progressed without you have to bear any additional financial burden.

Duncan Lewis & Co was established in 1998.  Its phenomenal growth in the last 10 years has been based on consistently high levels of service and expertise.  If you need help in relation to a public law or human rights matter you could not be in better hands than those of our public law experts.  For more information visit our website at or contact us on our freephone number.