Coming to terms with the death of a loved one can be an extremely sensitive and upsetting time. Understandably, this time can become deeply distressing when the circumstances of their death are unclear, or unknown.
When family members are informed that an inquest into the death of their loved one is taking place, they are often apprehensive and have lots of questions. Here at Ramsdens, our specialist team are here to reassure you of the process and answer any queries you may have…
What is a Coroner’s Inquest?
Coroners inquests are held when the cause of an individual’s death is unknown, thought to be violent or unnatural, or if their death occurred in prison or police custody. The purpose of an inquest is to provide the opportunity for an investigation into the circumstances of an individual’s death. The coroner aims to answer four questions:
1. Who has died?
2. When did they die?
3. Where did they die?
4. How did they die?
It is important to remember that inquests are not conducted to determine blame, and the conclusion of an inquest will not identify an individual nor an organisation as having criminal or civil liability. The outcome of an inquest may however give rise to a potential civil claim such as clinical negligence, something our injury team can later assist with.
What will the outcome of the inquest be?
The outcomes of inquests differ dependent on circumstance. Possible outcomes include: natural causes, accident, suicide, unlawful killing, and in some cases the coroner may make a narrative verdict, describing the circumstances of the death. In some cases the coroner may report the death to an appropriate authority when action is required to prevent future deaths in similar circumstances. This is common when health and safety regulations are involved.
Do I need Legal Representation?
Although there is no requirement for family members present at an inquest to be legally represented, they are entitled to be represented by a legal body throughout the inquest process. Legal representation is encouraged by our inquest solicitors at Ramsdens. Inquests can often be both lengthy and complex, addressing a number of sensitive matters throughout. Having the support of a legal professional can not only ease the process of the inquest itself, but can also consider whether more could have been done to prevent the death of your loved on. Our experienced inquest solicitors gather vital evidence which could later lead to a potential civil claim.
Legal representation is further encouraged when an inquest concerns Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights. In these cases the inquest will be heard by both the coroner and, in some cases also a jury, in order to determine if your loved ones “right to life” has been breached as a result of their death.
Attending an inquest concerning a loved one is understandably a difficult time, but our specialist team are here to support you throughout the process and provide legal representation. Funding options range from private paying, Legal Aid and Conditional Free Agreement (no win no fee). Should you wish to speak to one of our inquest solicitors either call us on 01484 821 500 or email us at info@ramsdens.co.uk.