CLINICAL NEGLIGLIGENCE MEDICAL CLAIM - CORONERS COURTS
Cause Of Death
The cause of death of any individual is an important matter particularly to the family of the deceased not only to establish the actual facts but also financially in regards to the payment of insurance or to decide whether or not to start a clinical negligence medical claim for compensation.
Death Certificate
Most deaths are not investigated as the cause of death is usually clear particularly so if the deceased has been ill and has recently been attended by a doctor. In these instances it may be possible to base a clinical negligence medical claim on the cause of death stated in the death certificate issued without an inquest.
Investigation
On the occasions when the cause of death is not clear or where the death has resulted from an accident or from an occupational illness or there is some question about the medical treatment of the deceased it may be necessary to investigate the cause, time and place of death.
Coroners
Coroners are appointed by the Secretary of State and are qualified as either doctors or lawyers and occasionally hold dual qualifications. The day to day organisation and running of the coroners court is dealt with by a police officer attached to the coroner’s court.
Public Hearing
An inquest is a public hearing held in a court of law intended to establish the identity of the deceased together with the date, time, location and cause of death. The inquest will be held after a post mortem which may assist the coroner in his findings. No member of the public can prevent a post mortem.
Evidence
The coroner can call for verbal evidence to be given from any member of the public either voluntarily or by force of subpoena which cannot be refused. In addition the doctors involved in any medical treatment can also be required to give evidence. The family of the deceased or more usually their legal representatives can question the witnesses.
Verdict
At the conclusion of the inquest hearing a verdict is given regarding the cause, time, location and nature of the death. There are certain unusual circumstances where a jury is used to make the final decision and return the verdict.
Free Advice
We can offer you advice on a clinical negligence medical claim either in person or over the phone. If you want to find out if you have a good case and how much money your claim may be worth, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our experts today. Regardless of your decision, you are never under any obligation to use our service. For free advice just complete the contact form and a specialist solicitor will phone you as soon as possible. If after talking to us you decide to proceed no further then you are under no obligation to do so and you will not be charged for our initial advice.
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