Coroners: A Guide to the New Law

The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 introduces fundamental changes to the coronial system. All those who advise or represent potential claimants, defendants, witnesses or family members will need to understand how the provisions affect coroners’ law in practice.

Coroners: A Guide to the New Law provides a clear and thorough coverage of the changes, offering detailed analysis with reference to the new and existing legislation. Key provisions introduced by the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 include:-

• a national coroner service for England and Wales, with a new appointment system for coroners and the introduction of a Chief Coroner
• a new death certification system
• the relaxation of rigid geographical boundary restrictions (services remain within local authorities)
• an Appeals system
• independent inspections
• new coroner areas
• powers to secure information and evidence
• the ability to hold inquests in private if non-publicy discloseable material is relevant to proceedings.

Furthermore, a Charter for the Bereaved will be introduced. This sets out the services that bereaved families can expect from the reformed coronial system and what steps they can take if these standards are not met.

The book includes the relevant sections and Schedules of the Coroners and Justice Act 2009, and the Charter for the Bereaved.