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Findings

What is a finding? 

A finding is the formal ruling made by a coroner following an investigation into a death or fire and is generally the final step in the investigation.

The coroner is the only person who can make a finding.

The length of a finding can vary from a single page to numerous pages depending on how complex the investigation is.

A finding is made whether an inquest is held of not. A finding made following an inquest is delivered in court by the coroner.

Finding without inquest

A 'finding without inquest' does not occur in court and is where the coroner makes a finding on the material available.

If a 'finding without inquest' is to be completed you will be informed.

Findings following a death

In the case of a death a coroner must find, if possible, the identity of the person who died, the cause of death, and in some situations, the circumstances.

A coroner does not have to determine circumstances if there was no inquest, the person who died was not held 'in custody or care' immediately before their death and there is no public interest in doing so.

The coroner may comment on any matter connected with the death including public health and safety or the administration of justice and may also make recommendations to any minister, public statutory authority or entity that may help to prevent similar deaths.

Findings following a fire

A coroner must also make a finding following an investigation into a fire. A coroner must find, if possible the cause and origin of the fire and circumstances in which the fire occurred.

The coroner cannot make a comment or statement in a finding that a person has committed or is guilty of an offence, but may say in a finding that they will notify the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Who can receive a finding?

The coroner determines who will receive a copy of the finding. Usually, the family of the person who died will receive a copy of the finding.

Copies of the finding may also be supplied to any person or organisation that the coroner has determined is an interested party.

An interested party is anyone who can demonstrate they have sufficient interest in the investigation.