Inquest Solicitors

Inquest Solicitors FAQS

Below, we have answered some frequently asked questions concerning inquest solicitors

• What is an inquest and when is one held?

  An inquest is a legal inquiry into the circumstances surrounding a death. A death is reported to a Coroner in the following situations: a doctor did not treat the person during their last illness, a doctor did not see or treat the person for the condition from which they died within 28 days of death, the cause of death was sudden, violent or unnatural. Inquests are also held when someone dies in custody, following police contact, or in state care.

• Who conducts an inquest?

  An inquest is conducted by a coroner, who is a judicial officer responsible for investigating certain types of deaths. The coroner examines evidence, questions witnesses, and determines the facts surrounding the death.

• What is the purpose of an inquest?

  The purpose of an inquest is to establish four key facts:

  • Who the deceased was
  • When they died
  • Where they died
  • How did they come by their death

  An inquest is a fact-finding exercise, not a trial. It does not determine criminal or civil liability.

• What conclusions can a coroner reach?

  The most common conclusions available to the coroner are: Lawful killing, e.g. self-defence or by military persons during acts of war, Open verdict (where there is insufficient evidence to reach any other conclusion). Other possible conclusions include natural causes, accident, misadventure, suicide, and unlawful killing. An inquest can conclude that certain people or organisations caused or contributed to the person’s death.

• Can family members attend an inquest?

  Yes, family members have the right to attend an inquest as “properly interested persons.” This status gives them certain rights, including the ability to examine witnesses and be legally represented.

• Do I need a solicitor for an inquest?

  At most inquests where there are no controversial issues, family members do not have a lawyer present. They are able to ask questions themselves if they wish. However, legal representation can be valuable in complex cases or where there may be concerns about the circumstances of death.

• What questions can families ask at an inquest?

  Families can ask questions that are relevant to the four statutory questions the coroner must answer. Questions should focus on the facts surrounding the death rather than attributing blame or fault.

• How long does an inquest take?

  The length varies significantly depending on complexity. Simple cases may be completed in a few hours, while complex cases involving multiple witnesses and expert evidence can take several days or weeks.

• What is Exceptional Case Funding?

  Most inquests do not need legal representation. However, you may still be able to get help through the Exceptional Case Funding scheme. This funding may be available in exceptional circumstances where representation is necessary to avoid a breach of human rights.

• When will I be notified about an inquest?

  The coroner’s office will contact properly interested persons to inform them when an inquest has been opened and provide details about hearing dates and procedures.

• What evidence is considered at an inquest?

  Evidence can include witness statements, expert reports, medical records, CCTV footage, and any other relevant documentation. The coroner determines what evidence is admissible and relevant.

• Can new evidence be introduced during an inquest?

  Yes, if relevant evidence comes to light during the proceedings, it can be introduced. However, it’s preferable to ensure all relevant evidence is available to the coroner beforehand.

• What happens after the inquest concludes?

  The coroner will issue a certificate stating their conclusion about the death. If the conclusion suggests criminal conduct, the case may be referred to the Crown Prosecution Service. Families may also consider whether civil action is appropriate.