Inquests

Inquests are official investigations led by coroners to determine the cause and circumstances of a person’s sudden, violent, or unexplained death. They involve collecting evidence from witnesses, medical reports, and experts to provide clarity and closure to the family and the public. While not focused on assigning criminal liability, inquest findings can influence legal proceedings. Participation is open to the deceased’s family, witnesses, and relevant parties, contributing to a thorough understanding of the events leading to the death.

What is an inquest?

An inquest is a legal inquiry led by a coroner to determine the cause, circumstances, and manner of a person’s death when it’s sudden, violent, or of unknown origin.

What is the purpose of an inquest?

The main purpose of an inquest is to establish the cause of death and identify any contributing factors, providing clarity to the public and the deceased person’s family.

Does an inquest determine criminal liability?

No, an inquest focuses on factual findings rather than assigning criminal guilt. However, its findings can contribute to subsequent legal proceedings.

Who conducts an inquest?

A coroner or medical examiner oversees the inquest proceedings, which may involve a jury or be held without one.

How is evidence gathered during an inquest?

Evidence is collected through witness testimonies, medical reports, expert opinions, and any available documentation related to the circumstances of the death.

Who can participate in an inquest?

The deceased person’s family, witnesses, legal representatives, and interested parties can participate by providing evidence or asking questions during the proceedings.

Family of woman who died after trolley fall agree €51,000 settlement

The family of an 82-year-old woman who died after falling from a hospital trolley has called for a review of care for elderly people in emergency departments.

Girl left severely brain damaged awarded €2.6m

The HSE apologised today to a 6-year-old girl with cerebral palsy over the failings in her care after her birth at University College Hospital, Galway.

Boy died from brain damage after delays in delivery, inquest told

A three-day-old boy died from brain damage caused by oxygen deprivation following delays in his delivery at Kerry General Hospital, an inquest has heard.