Coroner

Coroners are situated throughout Queensland in Magistrates Courts. They are responsible for holding inquiries into the circumstances surrounding deaths that are reported to them. This inquiry may result in a Coronial Inquest.

The Coroner will order a post mortem, if required, to help him/her ascertain the cause and manner of death.

An inquest need not be held if the Coroner decides that the death was due to natural circumstances, or that no good purpose would be served by holding the inquest.

An inquest can be requested by a relative or person that the Coroner determines has sufficient interest in the death. This will be considered by the Coroner when deciding whether or not to hold an inquest. The next of kin will be notified of the reasons why an inquest will not be held.

The purpose of the Coronial Inquest is to establish as far as possible:

the fact that a person has died
the identity of the deceased person
when, where and how the death occurred

A Coronial Inquest is a court hearing where the Coroner considers information to help establish these matters. At a Coronial Inquest, the Coroner may call a number of witnesses to give evidence, including a workplace health and safety inspector.

While inquests are generally open to the public, in certain circumstances the Coroner can determine who will attend. It may be necessary for you or another member of your family to make a statement to the police about your knowledge of the circumstances of the death. If the inquest is set down for hearing, the Coroner will read your statement and determine whether it is necessary for you to attend to give further evidence at the hearing.

You will be notified by the Coroner if you are required to give evidence. If an inquest is to be held, the Coroner's office will keep you informed of the date and place of the hearing, which may take more than one day.

Any person who, in the opinion of the Coroner, has a sufficient interest in any aspect of the inquest may apply to the Coroner for permission to appear in person, or to be legally represented at the inquest. This person, or his or her legal representative, may examine and cross examine any witness on matters relevant to the inquest.

Coroner's office enquiries

Office of the State Coroner - telephone 07 3239 6193

Last updated July 18, 2005