Coronial matters – The Coronial Inquest Unit, what they do and how to refer to them

The Coronial Inquest Unit is a state-wide specialist service of Legal Aid NSW. They provide free legal advice and assistance in coronial matters, and represent people at coronial inquests where legal aid has been granted.

After a disaster, there might be a coronial process in relation to two types of matters:

Death during a disaster:

• When someone had passed away in the course of a disaster, the death is reported to a coroner by NSW Police, there is an investigation, and the coroner makes formal findings about the death. Most deaths reported to the coroner will not result in an inquest.  
• How Legal Aid can help: The Coronial Inquest Unit (CIU) can provide free legal advice to families about the coronial process (but not wills and estates), help families to communicate with the Coroners Court, obtain information, make submissions, and in some matters, provide representation in coronial inquests (subject to public interest and means tests).

Fire inquiry:

• The coroner has jurisdiction to hold an inquiry about the cause and origin of a fire where property had been destroyed or damaged. 
• How Legal Aid can help: The CIU can advise people who were asked by the police to provide witness statements, or who want to contribute/participate in the process. 

 

Referrals and more information 

If you come across a client who is a family member or a relative of someone who has died in the course of a disaster, you can warm refer them to the CIU for intake and initial advice. The timeframe for speaking with a solicitor is approximately 2 weeks: 

• By phone (preferred): 9219 5156 to speak to an intake officer.  
• For detailed referral information check out the CIU Intranet page