Coronial inquests are public hearings held to examine the cause and circumstances surrounding a death. In Queensland, inquests are conducted by magistrates in their role as coroners.
Not all deaths are the subject of an inquest. Coroners examine police reports and decide which deaths require further investigation. Certain deaths must, by law, be investigated, including all deaths in police or prison custody or that result from a police operation.
An inquest is not a trial and there is no jury. It is not about deciding guilt. Coroners can inform themselves in any way they consider appropriate, but must ensure proceedings are conducted fairly.
A coroner may form a reasonable suspicion that a person committed an offence and has a duty to refer that information to the relevant agency, commonly the Director of Public Prosecutions. If you are under suspicion for your role in a death, representation is vital to ensure you are not unfairly blamed.
Your lawyer protects and advances your interests by helping you understand and analyse the evidence, questioning witnesses on your behalf, and making submissions to the coroner.
Inquests often arise from deaths in care. We assist practitioners through the entire process, from producing a statement to appearing and giving evidence at an inquest.
Book a free 15-minute consult or call our 24-hour line. The earlier we're involved, the more we can do.
