Complaints Against the Police

Most people come to us for help with actions against the police. Often a police complaint can also be made.

What is the difference between a police complaint and actions against the police?

Police complaints are internal disciplinary matters in which no civil claim for compensation can be made. If successful, the complaint can result in advice being given to the police officer(s) concerned, additional training, formal warnings, or even dismissal. Complaints are dealt with by the police’s local professional standards department and the Independent Police Complaints Commission.

A common example of a police complaints is where it is alleged that the police did not investigate properly. Another would be where you allege a stop & search complaint.

However, as complaints against the police do not result in civil claims for compensation, they do not result in costs being payable or awarded. Consequently, while we are able to give guidance, we cannot pursue a pure complaint matter for you unless you are willing/ able to pay us to do so. As a result, we recommend that you contact the IPCC direct.

Actions Against the Police are civil claims for compensation following police misconduct. They are pursued through the courts and, if successful, result in legal costs being paid by those responsible to the injured party. Donoghue Solicitors are experts at dealing with these claims and can assist on a ‘no win no fee‘ basis where possible.

Click on the claims against the police link for examples of the types of things we can help you claim compensation for.

If you think you may have a claim, complete the online form to the right of this page or call us on freephone 08000 124 209  so we can consider your claim with you.