PPP146 - Investigative Practice I

Question 1

What are the functions of a state coroner? (Coroner’s act 2009 Sec. 10 (1).)

Answer 1

(a) to oversee and co-ordinate coronial services in the State, and
(b) to ensure that all deaths, suspected deaths, fires and explosions concerning which a coroner has jurisdiction to hold an inquest or inquiry are properly investigated, and
(c) to ensure that an inquest or inquiry is held whenever it is required by this Act to be held or it is, in the State Coroner’s opinion, desirable that it be held, and
(d) to issue guidelines to coroners to assist them in the exercise or performance of their functions, and
(e) to exercise such other functions as are conferred or imposed on the State Coroner by or under this or any other Act.

Question 2

Explain the role and responsibilities police have when investigating matters reportable to the State Coroner ( Coroners Act 2009 (NSW), Section 35(3))

Answer 2

Coroners Act 2009 (NSW), Section 35(3)

A police officer to whom a death or suspected death is reported under this section is required to report the death or suspected death to a coroner or assistant coroner as soon as possible after the report is made.

Question 3

What is the job of a state Coroner?

Answer 3

Coroner is concerned with determining who, where, when and how a person died, and/or the cause and origin of a fire or explosion

Question 4

Explain the role and responsibilities police have when investigating matters reportable to the State Coroner

Answer 4

What is particularly important is that police must always keep in mind that the evidence they are presenting to a Coroner may also be required in a criminal proceeding, and thus consideration of and adherence to the rules of evidence remain. BUT most importantly, the cause of death, How, where etc. to clarify the death with accuracy, especially those that are suspicious.