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.

Verdict of medical misadventure at inquest into baby’s death

The jury at the inquest into the death of baby Conor Whelan at Cavan General Hospital over two years ago

HSE apologises over death of baby

Grace McFadden, it was claimed, suffered a brain injury and had cerebral palsy, and died on Mother’s Day 2009.

Montgomery -v- Lanarkshire Health Board 2015 UKSC 11

I recently attended a Medico-Legal conference where Lord Kerr, one of the Judges responsible for this landmark UK judgment spoke.

The Purpose of an Inquest

Learning of the death of a loved one is a harrowing experience for families. As a matter of Law an Inquest must be held where a death is or may be due to unnatural causes