Practical Guidance

“Accident” and “Misadventure” are closely related short-form conclusions available to a Coroner or Jury. In simple terms: Both conclusions mean that the death was not intentional. For a general overview of the inquest process, see About Inquests. The Legal Meaning Although the terminology can sound archaic, the distinction is practical rather than technical. Historically, “misadventure”…

What Does a Suicide Conclusion Mean? A conclusion of suicide means that the Coroner or Jury is satisfied that: It is a serious and carefully scrutinised conclusion. Coroners are required to direct themselves or the Jury with particular care before it can be returned. Chapter 15 of the Chief Coroner’s Bench Book provides guidance to…

Introdcution – What is Interested Person Status? Interested Person (usually abbreviated to “IP”) status is a formal designation under section 47(2) of the Coroners and Justice Act 2009, giving individuals specific rights to participate in an inquest. The Chief Coroner’s Revised Guidance – Chapter 2 explains that an Interested Person is someone whom the Coroner…

Introduction Few aspects of an inquest attract as much attention, or perhaps as much misunderstanding, as a Prevention of Future Death report (often shortened to a “PFD Report”). The statutory foundation lies in Schedule 5 paragraph 7 of the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 and Regulations 28 and 29 of the Coroners (Investigations) Regulations 2013.…

You may have been told that your loved one’s Inquest “engages Article 2.” That can sound technical and intimidating. In reality, it simply means that the investigation will need to be wider and more detailed. What Is Article 2? Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights protects the right to life. When someone…