Coroner’s inquests

It is vital that those who are invited to participate in an inquest are advised and, where appropriate, take steps to manage the presentation of evidence. Coroners are increasingly looking to use the tools at their disposal to draw attention to deficiencies within organisations, and can require steps be taken to prevent a recurrence. Inquests can also influence future enforcement action, as well as related civil litigation.

Our expertise
We undertake a rigorous interrogation of the facts with our clients, before setting out a strategy for dealing with the inquest itself, taking into account the impact on the business, the individuals involved, any related legal processes and PR concerns.

We are experienced inquest advocates and so can provide complete continuity throughout and where Counsel is required, we can recommend the best barrister for your case.

Our lawyers have devised an inquest training programme for businesses, which provides companies with an in-depth knowledge as to the scope, extent and purpose of inquests and how best to manage the presentation of information so as to minimise the potential for an adverse or detrimental outcome.

Our track record
Our lawyers have represented businesses and individuals in inquests across a broad spectrum of industry sectors and at Coroner’s courts nationwide. Our experience includes representing:

• Rochdale Boroughwide Housing, following the death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who died following exposure to environmental mould. The case received international media attention and has led to calls for a change in the law.
• A major contractor whose employee sustained fatal injuries when he was crushed between two rail maintenance vehicles during track upgrade works.
• A national care provider following the death of a service user who died as a result of misplacement of a naso-gastric tube by an employed nurse.
• A technology services company following the death of a sub-contractor’s employee during the upgrade of the M3 to a ‘smart’ motorway.
• The head chef of Manchester’s Almost Famous restaurant during the inquest into the death of Shahida Shahid, who died following an allergic reaction after having eaten at the restaurant.