If you suspect that a loved one’s death resulted from medical negligence, a coroner will likely start an inquest to investigate the circumstances of their death. During challenging moments like this, it’s important to have a trusted solicitor by your side. Choosing a solicitor with specialised expertise in inquests and compensation claims can help to make sure your interests are genuinely represented.

At Switalskis, we pride ourselves on being more than just solicitors; we're your guiding hand and your support system. We understand the gravity of what you're going through, and our mission is to demystify the process for you. With a blend of expertise, compassion and a commitment to clear communication, we aim to make this journey as smooth as possible for you.

A coroner's inquest is an official procedure that investigates unexpected or unnatural deaths. The primary goal isn’t to assign blame or liability but to determine four statutory questions: the who, where, when and how a death came about.

This process is particularly important when the circumstances of the death are unnatural, unexplained, or potentially linked to external factors, such as medical negligence. The inquest provides a structured environment where evidence is examined, witnesses may be called upon, and expert opinions are sought.

For families and loved ones, a coroner's inquest may provide answers that can linger after a sudden loss. The inquest aims to look at relevant details and any public concerns that are identified. In essence, it’s a fact-finding investigation into how someone died.

When does a death in a medical setting lead to a coroner's inquest?

• Unexpected or unexplained deaths: if a patient dies in a way that wasn't anticipated based on their known medical conditions or if the cause of death isn't immediately clear, an inquest may be needed. This allows the circumstances surrounding the death to be thoroughly examined.
• Deaths following medical procedures: if a patient dies shortly after undergoing a medical procedure or surgery, and there's a possibility that the procedure may have contributed to the death, an inquest becomes essential. It's important to determine whether the procedure was a direct cause or if other factors were at play.
• Concerns raised by families: sometimes, families or loved ones might have concerns or doubts about the care provided to a loved one who died. If they believe that negligence or malpractice played a role in the death, their concerns can trigger an inquest.
• Deaths in custodial settings: If a patient dies while under institutional care, such as in mental health facility, and there are suspicions about the quality of care or treatment they received, an inquest is often deemed necessary.
• Public interest: in some cases, the death might raise concerns or questions in the broader community, especially if it hints at a larger issue within the healthcare system. An inquest in these situations serves the dual purpose of providing answers to the family and addressing public concerns.

An inquest is about seeking answers, understanding the circumstances, and making sure that similar incidents can be prevented in the future. At Switalskis, we're committed to guiding families through this process, making sure they have the support, knowledge and advocacy they need during such challenging times.

The financial aspects of legal representation during a coroner's inquest can be a significant concern for many families. It's essential to understand how the process works and what options might be available:

• Self-funding: in somes cases, families bear the cost of legal representation during the inquest. This means they directly pay the solicitors or legal representatives for their services. It's important to discuss fees upfront and understand any potential additional costs you might face.
• Legal Aid: families might be eligible for Legal Aid, but this is restricted to very specific sets of circumstances. Legal Aid can cover some or all of the legal costs associated with the inquest. Eligibility often depends on the nature of the case, its public interest, and the financial circumstances of the family.
• No win, no fee agreements: some law firms might offer conditional free agreements. This means that the legal fees are only payable if the inquest is followed by a successful negligence claim. It's essential to understand the terms of such agreements thoroughly.
• Insurance: some people have legal expenses insurance, either as a standalone policy or as an add-on to home or car insurance. Such policies can sometimes cover legal costs for inquests, so it's worth checking any existing insurance policies to see if you're covered.
• Charities and support groups: in certain situations, especially high-profile cases or those with broader societal implications, charities or support groups might offer financial assistance or even provide legal representation.

At Switalskis, we believe that everyone deserves fair representation, regardless of their financial situation. We're committed to providing clear, upfront information about costs and exploring all available options to make sure families receive the support they need during the vital process of an inquest.