If you’re a care provider, healthcare professional, employer or family member facing an inquest following a death, this guide outlines the key legal aspects and how our firm can support you.
What is an inquest?
An inquest is a public inquiry led by a coroner to determine:
- Who the deceased was
- When, where, and how they died
It is not a trial and does not assign liability, but it can have significant legal and reputational consequences.
When is an inquest required?
An inquest is legally required when a death is:
- Sudden or unexplained
- Occurred if someone has died while in the detention of the state
- At the discretion of the Coroner
What are the legal risks, after a death, for care providers and other employers?
Care providers may face:
- Regulatory investigation from the CQC, police or local authorities
- Civil claims for negligence
- Reputational damage if failings are exposed
- Criminal investigations
What is a Prevention of Future Deaths (PFD) report?
If, at any stage in proceedings, the coroner identifies risks that could lead to future deaths, they must issue a PFD report. This can trigger:
- Mandatory responses from a person or body with the power to make a change
- Regulatory follow-up
- Media attention
Can staff be called as witnesses?
Yes. Staff may be asked to:
- Provide written statements
- Provide or create documents, exhibits, photographs or video footage
- Attend the inquest to give oral evidence
We help prepare staff to give confident, accurate testimony.
How can our expert crime & regulatory solicitors help
We offer:
- Expert legal advice from the outset
- Representation at pre-inquest reviews and hearings
- Drafting and reviewing of witness statements
- Strategic support to protect your interests
- Our legal support ensures:
- Proper disclosure of records
- Protection of your legal rights
- Skilled representation at hearings
- Strategic handling of sensitive evidence
- Mitigation of reputational and legal risks
- Support for you and your staff at a complex and difficult time
- Having someone “on your side” who will liaise with the Coroner and other parties on your behalf and allow you to get on with your own job
Do you need legal support with an inquest?
If you’re involved in an inquest or anticipate one, get in touch to see how we can support you.
