Coroner's Court transcript

[LoungeLizard]

I lost a close friend in tragic circumstances.

I wanted to attend the Coroner's hearing but my car broke down and I couldn't go.

I later rang the Coroner's office and they told me that the verdict was 'Open'.

However, they refused to let me view the transcript of the hearing on the grounds that I was not a family member or sollicitor.

Is their position correct? What is the legislation that determines this?  I find this surprising because the hearing itself is in the public domain; anyone who wants to can turn up and make their own notes, including journalists.

[Octavius]

From the Coroners Model Charter:

21.  The coroner will supply to an interested person, on application, a copy of the inquest verdict (although this is reproduced on the death certificate), or any of the documents produced in evidence, within [10] working days of receipt of the prescribed fee( which will vary according to the number and size of the documents to be copied). An estimate of the fee will be provided in advance if requested.

22. The coroner will also supply, for the prescribed fee, a copy of his notes of evidence, but this may take up to [6] weeks to provide. In all cases, an estimate of the fee will be given on application.

Hope this helps

[LoungeLizard]

Thank you, Octavius.  Following from your extract, I have been able to locate the whole of the document on the internet.

Any idea of a definition of 'an interested party'?  Do I have to demonstrate a connection to the deceased (which I can); or can any member of the public demand any Coroner's report document (provided that they pay the fee and wait for a reasonable period of time)? 

[willow74]

it would be best to go via the deceased family.  its ultimately the next of kin's / direct family who are the main interested parties.  show them respect by asking for information. 

if you are not on good terms with them then no you shouldnt go and you should leave it to them to have it as a private matter. 

[Octavius]

I would imagine that in due course, providing the fee is paid, anyone could have access to the information.

[Cathyhuns]

For interest - where did you find the records on the internet.  A quick google just brought up US sites.

[aer62]

The following is from a Home Office web page:

The work of coroners

This guide is for information purposes only and is not an exhaustive explanation of coroners' law.

Who is a "properly interested person"?

a parent, spouse, child and anyone acting for the deceased;

anyone who gains from a life insurance policy on the deceased;

any insurer having issued such a policy;

anyone whose actions the coroner believes may have contributed to the death, accidentally or otherwise;

the chief officer of police (who may only ask witnesses questions through a lawyer);

any person appointed by a government department to attend the inquest;

anyone else who the coroner may decide also has a proper interest. If you ask, the coroner or his officer will advise you whether you have a proper interest.

http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/justice/legalprocess/corone rs/work.html