Coroners' Courts: A Guide to Law and Practice, 4th Edition

• Provides practical, step-by-step explanations of the law and procedure relating to coroner's investigations and inquests
• Written to encompass the extensive changes introduced by the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 and the relevant Rules and Regulations
• Includes extensive but straight-forward explanations of the role and responsibilities of the coroner and of the procedures in this complex area
• Contains advice for advocates and others attending inquests, with particular relevance to medical witnesses
• Easy to read with a clear and logical layout
• Written by a full-time coroner with more than 20 years' experience, offering unique insights and expertise
• Coming soon: Coroners' Courts as an app for iPad and iPhone via the OUP LawReader

New to this edition

• Expanded sections on the practical effects of Article 2 on the inquest
• Examination of the new concept of a coroner's investigation
• Consideration of the potential effects of the Medical Examiner system
• Expanded material on screening and anonymity of witnesses
• Additional material on dealing with juries
• Analysis of the new approach to conclusions rather than verdicts
• Coverage of the prevention of future deaths reports

Coroners' Courts follows the coroner's investigation of a death from initial report to the inquest conclusion and subsequent issues including prevention of future deaths reports. The book is an easy to read reference for those involved in the coronial system. It also provides clear, step by step guidance for the advocate and practical advice for the witness covering key topics such as preparing for an inquest, report writing, and attending court. In addition, it includes dedicated chapters on mass fatality incidents and treasure. Written by a full-time coroner with more than 20 years experience, it provides a unique insight into the working of a coroner's court with explanations of the coroner's duties, the post-mortem examination, the purpose of the inquest, and the nature of the coroner's conclusion. 

This book contains a clear, practical treatment of all topics from routine casework to the complex effects of the Human Rights legislation. Re-written to encompass the Coroners and Justice Act 2009, it also describes the potential relationship between the coroner and the Medical Examiner's Office.

Readership: Coroners and coroners' officers; solicitors and barristers in private practice or local authorities dealing with inquests; Medical examiners and medical examiner's officers.