What is the purpose of the Coroners Court?

The Coroners Court serves a critical role in the judicial system by investigating certain types of deaths, particularly those considered to be unnatural or unexplained. Its primary purpose is to determine the identity of the deceased, how they died, and whether the death was a result of an accident, suicide, homicide, or any other cause requiring judicial inquiry. When necessary, the court holds inquests to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding these deaths, allowing for a more comprehensive examination of the facts and evidence.

This investigative function of the Coroners Court is essential for public safety, ensuring that lessons can be learned from certain cases to prevent future deaths and promote changes in public policy or health regulations. The court does not assign blame or determine liability in a legal sense but rather focuses on determining the facts of the death itself. This distinguishes its role from that of a criminal court or legal mediator, which deal with liability and disputes in different contexts.