Misfeasance – also known as misconduct – occurs when a public officer, such as a Detention Custody Officer (DCO), deliberately abuses their powers and causes damage to an individual. Not only must the suspect be a ‘public officer’ but the misconduct must occur when acting in that capacity.
Damages include and are not limited to;
Misfeasance can cover a wide range of transgressions including bribery and corruption.
Our solicitors are well placed to advise on misfeasance claims. In addition, our in-house criminal defence lawyers can advise on the specifics of cases involving criminal prosecutions and misfeasance, if necessary.
There is a six-year time limit to making claims for misfeasance, but we advise clients to get in touch as soon as possible to prepare a claim and discuss making a formal complaint to the police force involved prior to serving a claim.
Duncan Lewis may be able to secure legal aid, or to offer a no win no fee arrangement for advising on police complaints and claims – with competitively priced rates for privately funding a claim or After the Event (ATE) insurance, if either legal aid is unavailable or where a no win no fee basis is not possible.
For expert legal advice on actions against immigration detention centres and misfeasance, call Duncan Lewis Action Against Public Authorities solicitors in confidence on 0333 772 0409.