When someone dies from natural causes the
attending doctor will normally certify the death so that it can be
officially registered. Sometimes, however, things aren’t
so clear cut. Perhaps the death was due to an accident at
work, or maybe there were suspicious circumstances surrounding the
death.
In cases like this where the death is not
natural, it will be reported to the Coroner, who will arrange for a
post mortem. If there are allegations of clinical negligence then
the Coroner will arrange for an independent pathologist to carry
out the post mortem.
If this investigation shows that the death was
due to natural causes then the Coroner will issue a Death
Certificate and no further action will be taken. However, if the
results are less clear then the Coroner will arrange for an inquest
to be held publicly where the family of the deceased or their legal
representative is given the opportunity to ask questions of the
witnesses and make submissions to the Coroner.
Legal Representation
If an inquest is arranged into the death of a
relative you may want to appoint legal representation. At Hodge
Jones & Allen our specialist fatal injury claims
solicitors have the unique experience of having dealt with many
fatal injury claims. These include people who were killed in
accidents at work, road accidents or even as the result of clinical
negligence. We provide sincere, sympathetic and effective support
for you and your family throughout the inquest and any subsequent
investigation.
Funding
If you can’t afford funding yourself, then
legal advice and preparation for an inquest may be covered by
Legal Help (subject
to eligibility). People normally need to cover their own costs,
although in certain cases a Conditional Fee Agreement (also
referred to as a CFA or ‘No win, No fee’) may be appropriate.
In addition, the following organisations may
be able to provide further advice and assistance: