Author: Meelis Magland

Farrell v Senior Coroner North East Hampshire [2021] EWHC 778 (Admin) In this strongly worded dismissal of a s.13 application the Divisional Court (including the new Chief Coroner) were perhaps signalling to Coroners that, whilst there may be an understandable wish to placate the bereaved, detailed consideration should be given before lending one’s support to […]

Read More… from Post-inquest allegations of foul play must have some foundation

The principles of open justice and transparency are fundamental to our justice system. They must be cherished and protected as vital to preserve the rule of law. However, a simple legislative oversight at the start of the pandemic has meant that, whilst most other courts increased their accessibility to the public by giving access via […]

Read More… from Open Justice and Remote Inquests: Allowing public and media video access to hearings

In the matter of an Inquest into the death of Patrick McElhone [2021] NI Coroner 1 The coronial world is still coming to terms with the impact of the Supreme Court decision in Maughan and what it will actually mean for inquests in practice. Even following the additional guidance from the Chief Coroner (see our […]

Read More… from ‘Unlawful killing’ as a narrative conclusion that names the perpetrator

Chief Coroner’s Guidance No. 37 – “COVID-19 Deaths and Possible Exposure in the Workplace” amended 1.7.2020 It is not often that guidance from the Chief Coroner excites the twittersphere. But the original version of this Guidance #37, issued on 28 April (see our earlier blog here), managed to generate much comment from the public, Doctor’s […]

Read More… from Are inquests the right forum to consider inadequate PPE?  Updated guidance published