Custody InsightsConsulting
FAQ
Frequently asked questions from families like yours
These are the ten questions families ask us most. If yours isn't answered here, call 020 8087 4832 or send a confidential enquiry — the first conversation is always free.
01Are you solicitors or a law firm?
No. We are independent ex-Prison Service specialists. We provide operational guidance, family support, and research-based shadow briefs that assist legal teams. We do not provide legal advice or representation.
02Is the first conversation free?
Yes — completely. The discovery call is confidential, free of charge and carries no obligation. You decide afterwards whether to instruct us; paid work only begins once you have agreed a scope in writing.
03Is everything I tell you confidential?
Yes. Every enquiry is handled by a senior adviser, and nothing is shared with any third party without your written instruction — except where the law requires it (for example, an immediate risk to life).
04Can you help if someone is already in prison?
Yes. Our In-Custody & Family Support covers prison portals, visits, money, Safer Custody escalation, ACCT concerns and progression — so the family outside knows exactly what to do, step by step.
05What happens on the discovery call?
A short, calm conversation. You tell us where things stand, we tell you plainly what happens next and what we would do first. No forms, no pressure, no commitment.
06How much does it cost?
Every engagement is charged at £250 per hour (ex VAT), with fixed packages from a £1,000 Single Consultancy Block to the £7,500–£9,500 Full Private Programme. Fees are agreed in writing before any paid work begins.
07Do you work with young people and Young Offender Institutions?
Yes. Our YOI support covers children aged 13–18 and their families, including SEND and EHCP needs, care status and multi-agency cases.
08Can solicitors instruct you directly?
Yes. Defence solicitors and direct access counsel can instruct us on a Shadow Brief — £3,000–£5,000 standard, £6,250–£10,000 for complex or multi-count cases (ex VAT).
09How quickly can you respond to an urgent matter?
Write “urgent” in your enquiry, or call 020 8087 4832, and we will prioritise a response on the same working day.
10Where are you based — can you help us wherever we live?
We support families across the whole of the UK. Most of our work is by phone and video call, with in-person support available where it matters, such as a first prison visit. Distance never limits the help we can give.
Still have a question?
Speak to a senior adviser in confidence. We are independent ex-Prison Service specialists — not solicitors, and this is not legal advice.