We have extensive experience of representing employers and local
authorities at fatal accident inquiries, by direct instruction or
through insurance clients. A Scottish procedure, quite distinct
from the coroner's court in England, inquiries illuminate the
circumstances and cause of death, giving all interested parties the
opportunity to understand precisely what occurred, allowing
informed opinions to be arrived at in advance of any Court
action.
Whether a death at work, in care or in unusual circumstances, a
fatal accident inquiry follows a tragic event, resulting in loss of
life. To best protect our client's interests, we
encourage clients to involve us as early as possible following the
fatality. If requested, we can provide on-site investigation
services in the immediate aftermath, conducting our work in a
professional and sensitive manner.
Fatal Accident Inquiries are held in open court, are of
unpredictable length, and often attract media attention. Our
experience is that witnesses are normally unfamiliar with
formal court proceedings, and find the environment intimidating.
This, combined with their likely emotional response to being asked
to recount events surrounding the death of someone they knew,
requires very careful handling. We manage this by:
- helping witnesses understand what is involved in a Fatal
Accident Inquiry. We inform in relation to Court procedure, and
provide practical advice and support.
- supporting witnesses in a caring but professional manner.
Where we have represented clients in an inquiry, we find
ourselves better placed to assess any civil court litigation which
may arise.