Coroners Court

The Coroners Court investigates deaths and fires, where the causes are unclear and recommendations may be made to assist in preventing similar incidents in the future.

Any organisation or individual who may have evidence to assist the Coroner may be required to appear at an inquest. Similarly, anyone at risk of having findings made that they contributed to the death or fire may be named as an ‘interested party’.

It is important if you are an interested party in an investigation or inquest to obtain advice from a lawyer who is experienced in the Coroners Court processes.

Coroners Court cases often attract significant media attention, especially where findings are made that a party’s actions contributed to a person’s death.

The consequences of adverse findings in the Coroners Court can be significant. A person or business found to have contributed to a person’s death can sustain significant reputational damage. Adverse findings may potentially lead to further civil and criminal liability.

The right lawyer can help manage the risk of adverse findings and ensure that the Coroners Court is fully informed of other explanations for the events being investigated. In our experience, early analysis of materials by a lawyer experienced in Coroners Court cases can result in other interested parties being persuaded to make concessions about their own conduct. This has led to our clients avoiding adverse findings.

Coronial inquests and investigations are naturally often difficult for families of the deceased. While the Court and counsel assisting the Coroner will offer support and will take families’ wishes into account, their primary role is to work towards making findings and recommendations.

This may be in conflict with what you see is relevant. We can help you to navigate the process and assist in having your concerns clearly articulated and presented.

The situation can be complicated further, where there is disagreement among family members. It can often be valuable and empowering for family members to obtain independent legal advice and to be assisted by a lawyer during the process.

This is where the value of independent legal advice becomes paramount, offering support and voice in the judicial process to those mourning.

Coroners Courts operate very differently from other courts and choosing an experienced Coroners Court lawyer is essential. PCL Lawyers are experienced in representing family members and other interested parties in Coroners Court investigations or inquests.

Our lawyers have represented individuals and companies in cases involving deaths in aged care, hospitals and public settings, as well as advising family members seeking inquests and those seeking reviews of Coroners’ decisions.

Our lawyers are well-versed in the distinct operations of the Coroners Court, whether the inquest is investigating elder care, medical facilities, workplace accidents, deaths in public spaces, suspicious fires or other areas; we have the experience to assert and protect your interests.

Selecting a seasoned Coroners Court lawyer assists you to present your knowledge and understanding of the event thoroughly. This will help to reduce the risk of adverse findings or recommendations.