Fatal Accident
We understand the devastating effect that an unexpected death can have on family members.
Although no amount of compensation can ever be enough and cannot bring your loved one back, you or a member of your family may wish to bring a claim for compensation.
Where the fatal accident or injury occurred as a result of negligence, our fatal accident expert solicitors can help you through the difficult process of making a compensation claim. This can ensure your financial stability while you cope with your devastating loss.
You can make a claim if you are related to the deceased in the following ways:
- children
- spouse or civil partners
- partners who have been co-habiting for over two years
- parents of victims who were under 18 years old
- or financially dependent on the deceased
However, there are strict time limits in fatal injury claims. Don’t delay and contact us immediately for free initial advice.
Inquest
An inquest is an inquiry conducted by a Coroner into the circumstances surrounding a death. The Coroner will try to establish who has died, and how, when and where the death has occurred. The Coroner will call witnesses such as medical, nursing and ambulance staff to the inquest to give evidence. Family of the deceased are entitled to ask questions and to be represented by lawyers if they wish. It is very rare that an inquest hearing is conducted with a jury.
The purpose of holding an inquest is for fact-finding, not for apportioning blame. The Coroner will take up matters with the relevant authorities to try to make sure that any errors are not repeated.
We understand how difficult it can be for families where a loved one has died in unexpected circumstances. Inquests can be distressing because they are formal legal procedures. We are regularly instructed to assist families in dealing with the Coroner’s office from the time a death is reported to the Coroner, up to and including representation at the inquest hearing itself.
Our clinical negligence team will do its best to assist you within the constraints of the limited purpose of the inquest. We will make sure that your views are properly represented and help you and your family to understand the conclusions the Coroner makes. If appropriate, we will advise you upon any further options for legal action following the Inquest hearing.
Please contact our clinical negligence specialists on 0845 263 7512.