Biography
I am an Associate Solicitor in the Public Law & Human Rights team, specialising in judicial review, inquests and actions against the police. I joined Irwin Mitchell as a paralegal in 2010 before training and qualifying with the firm.
From May 2015 to May 2019, I was co-chair of Young Legal Aid Lawyers, a national group of aspiring and junior lawyers which campaigns for access to justice and seeks to promote social mobility and diversity in the legal profession. I am currently a member of the advisory committee of Legal Aid Practitioners Group.
In July 2019, I received a Special Award for making an exceptional contribution to legal aid and access to justice at the Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year awards.
Judicial review
I act for individuals, charities and campaign groups in challenges against policies and cuts which have a negative impact on communities and vulnerable groups. I have brought successful cases against government departments, local authorities and NHS bodies.
I was recently instructed in a judicial review challenge concerning the upper limit set in legislation for Disabled Facilities Grants, which fund adaptations to disabled people's homes. As a result of the judicial review, the government agreed to review the upper limit of £30,000, which has not changed since 2008.
Civil liberties
I represent bereaved families at inquests into the death of a loved one where that death has occurred following contact with the police, in prison or police custody or during detention under the Mental Health Act. I advise and represent families in claims under the Human Rights Act following a death in such circumstances.
I am currently representing the families of several people who have died following the use of force by police or prison officers, including the use of physical restraint and a fatal police shooting.
I also act for clients in actions against the police arising out of wrongful arrest, assault, malicious prosecution, misfeasance in public office and in claims under the Human Rights Act.
I was recently instructed by a survivor of sexual abuse who brought a successful claim under the Human Rights Act that the failure by police to properly investigate the reported offence was a breach of Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights.
What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?
I work with fantastic colleagues on important cases which can change people’s lives, and throughout the firm the range of expertise we have is unrivalled – whatever legal problem a client has, there is likely to be someone at Irwin Mitchell who knows the answer.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?
Achieving positive outcomes for our clients and protecting their rights following unlawful conduct by public bodies.
What inspired you to get into law?
I wanted to use the law to help people who need it most. The work we do in the Public Law & Human Rights team can benefit not only our individual clients, but also wider groups and communities.
Awards
LAPG Special Award, Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year Awards 2019
Testimonials
"Oliver Carter is a brilliant public law solicitor working across a range of specialisms. He is sharp, effective and a safe pair of hands." - Legal 500 2025 (Leading Associate)
"Oliver is knowledgeable, meticulous, personable and compassionate. He is willing to go the extra mile in order to provide a level of service that goes far beyond what is expected." - Chambers & Partners (Associate to Watch)
"Oliver Carter looks like a public law star of the future. Bright, knowledgeable and committed to his clients."
"Oliver Carter is an excellent practitioner with a developing public law practice." - Legal 500, 2024 (Rising Star)
Sensitive, thoughtful and expert intervention secured a better life for our autistic son. Oliver Carter and the team at Irwin Mitchell could not have done more when other firms were declined to get involved. Too often you feel very alone when supporting your vulnerable loved one, we were so grateful that someone else was willing and able to advise us at a very difficult time." - 5* Trustpilot review
"Oliver Carter – undoubtedly the lead person we relied upon. He was so supportive, understood the case brilliantly and worked so hard to see it through." - Legal 500, 2023
"Oliver Carter is great to work with, hugely personable, really dedicated, and it is clear that he cares a lot about his clients." – Legal 500, 2021 (Rising Star)
"My family wished to ensure that our son will continue to enjoy his current satisfactorily high level of family-based care and attention for his personal welfare-needs in his future life. We believe the advice and guidance provided by our lawyer and case handler has been timeous, supportive and indeed instrumental to the structure of our successful application." - 5* Trustpilot review by Jeffrey Beardsley
"No hesitation recommending Irwin Mitchell: Kept up to date with all aspects of my case. Went above and beyond to get the right outcome, even if that meant working late or emailing at weekends. All team members had a good knowledge of the case and were able to advise us. Friendly and knowledgeable, happily recommend them.” - 5 star Trustpilot review by Justine Cull
“Thank you so much for all you have done. The standard of your work and ability to listen to me, when we needed you, is astounding. You have given my father and I a voice. I have been so stressed out by all of this and so has my father. But we don't feel alone with you on our side.” – Ms E
“I am deeply moved by your quick and efficient response and willingness to help. It gives hope to see even that even when faced with brick walls, there are those who are there provide a ladder and help you up and over.”– Mr N
Publications
I have written about public law, human rights, legal aid and access to justice for a number of publications, including Legal Action, The Justice Gap, Solicitors Journal, Socialist Lawyer and openDemocracy.
I was the Law Society Gazette 'Lawyer in the news' in October 2021, following our team's work on an application for a new inquest for Megan Davison.
