Coronial Inquests
A coronial inquest is governed by the Coroners Act 2003. A hearing conducted under this act examines what is known as a ‘reportable death’. That means not all deaths are examined by a coroner.
There are certain deaths that must be examined by a coroner. They include deaths in police custody or as a result of police involvement as well as deaths that might occur under certain care, such as mental health facilities and organisations that care for the disabled.
A family of a deceased person can request that a coroner conduct an examination however it is ultimately the decision of the coroner as to whether an examination occurs.
Upon a death being reported to the coroner, that coroner will start the process of investigating the circumstances of the person’s death. This can include establishing the identity of the person, how, when and where the person died and the cause of death. The process can include the ordering of an autopsy and, in some cases, the listing of a hearing for the coroner to make findings through the assistance of lawyers, experts or witnesses generally. Once findings are made, the coroner can also make recommendations to prevent similar events occurring again.
If an inquest is ordered there is a process that is followed initially and during the actual hearing. The first step is what is known as a ‘pre-inquest conference’. This is not the actual hearing and is established so that the parties involved in the inquest can canvas the issues to be considered, the witnesses to be called and where and when the hearing will be heard.
We can guide you through the process of the actual hearing at our free initial consultation.
Any interested party, including the deceased family members and other persons, can seek the Coroner’s leave to appear at the hearing. We are experienced in acting for any person who considers themselves an interested party.
The firm’s principal has experience acting for individuals and corporations that may be interested in the findings and recommendations to be handed down by a Coroner.
