Ison Harrison appoints inquest specialist

Yorkshire-based law firm Ison Harrison has strengthened its specialist inquest and public law team with the appointment of award-winning inquest lawyer Alistair Smith.

Alistair joins the firm with extensive experience supporting bereaved families through complex inquests and investigations, particularly those involving mental health trusts and state bodies. 

He arrives at Ison Harrison following the Government’s announcement of a statutory public inquiry into Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust.

Alistair has represented families in several high-profile TEWV-related cases over a number of years and brings detailed knowledge of the trust, its processes and the wider issues under scrutiny. 

He will work alongside solicitors Sarah Magson and Dawn Makepeace, who have also recently joined the firm.

Recognised for his advocacy and legal expertise, Alistair was named Outstanding Achievement winner at the Northern Law Awards in 2024.

He said: “I am proud to continue representing families affected by the TEWV failings and to stand alongside them at such a significant moment. 

“This is what families have campaigned so tirelessly for over many years and I am privileged to have been on that journey with many of those impacted families.

“The announcement of a statutory public inquiry represents a vital step towards truth, justice and accountability. 

“Crucially, it will have the power to compel witnesses to give evidence, which is essential to establishing the root causes of what went wrong and ensuring meaningful, lasting change. 

“Above all, families want to know that no one else will have to endure what they have been through, and this inquiry gives a real opportunity to deliver that change.”

Alistair’s appointment reinforces Ison Harrison’s growing focus on complex inquests and public accountability work across the North.

Gareth Naylor, director and head of personal injury and inquests at Ison Harrison, added: “Alistair’s appointment comes at a hugely significant moment. 

“He is a highly respected lawyer with a deep commitment to families affected by systemic failings, particularly within mental health services. 

“The announcement of the TEWV public inquiry underlines why specialist, independent representation is so important. 

“We are proud of the role our team has played in supporting families and campaigning for a process that has the power to deliver real accountability and lasting reform.”

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