Coroner’s Court
Coroners are charged with investigating the death of people in circumstances described as “sudden and unexpected.” Coroners not only identify the deceased, but also determine the medical cause of death, define the manner of death and the circumstances surrounding the death. The underlying benefit of an inquest is the emphasis on preventability of like deaths; making it a public service for the whole community.
An inquest will be called if the circumstances are so compelling that all of society, or a specific part of society, would benefit from learning the circumstances of the death . An inquest is a process in which witnesses are called to give evidence under oath before a jury and a coroner. The jury then becomes responsible to find the essentials of identity, medical cause, the definition and manner of death. The jury and a coroner without a jury may both make recommendations as a result of their findings aimed at preventing a like death.
Such recommendations, which are deliberately crafted in such a way as to be practical, sensible and achievable, are sent to people and institutions that can do something about them.
Certain principles make the Coroners’ Service unique:
- It is a fact finding, not a fault finding authority;
- It is an independent service to the people of the community and must be seen as such;
- It serves firstly the deceased and relatives and friends of the deceased; secondly, society as a whole; and, thirdly, government agencies and other organizations.
The coroner, with or without a jury, speaks for the deceased. People who are involved in the circumstances may be recognized by the coroner and may have an opportunity for input. Most people feel that being represented by a lawyer is a beneficial in these circumstances.
Contact John Bethell for more information.
Located in: Administrative Law
