Specialist Coronial Inquest Lawyers in Sydney & Nationwide
Your Voice Deserves Our Expertise in the Coroner’s Court
Trusted & Recommended by Clients. Let by Accredited Specialists
4.6 – 120 Reviews
The O'Brien Advantage
Proven Track Record
We have successfully represented families and other interested parties in coronial inquests across New South Wales and around Australia. Our coronial lawyers have acted in complex and sensitive matters, including deaths in custody, police shootings, medical and hospital deaths, workplace incidents and institutional deaths, achieving thorough investigations and meaningful coronial recommendations.
Extensive Coronial Expertise
Our team of highly experienced lawyers, including NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists, has in‑depth knowledge of the Coroners Act 2009 (NSW) and coronial practice in other states and territories. We understand how the Coroner’s Court operates, what evidence matters most, and how to ensure the circumstances of a death are properly examined.
Personalised Approach
Every death, every family and every cultural context is unique. Our lawyers take the time to understand your loved one’s story, your questions, and what you hope to achieve from the inquest – whether that is answers, accountability, systemic change, or supporting a later civil claim. We then tailor a strategy to protect your interests throughout the coronial process.
No Win, No Fee*
For coronial inquests, we provide clear and upfront advice about legal costs and funding options. In some related civil proceedings that arise from a coronial investigation, such as medical negligence, actions against police, or institutional abuse claims, we may be able to offer a no win, no fee arrangement so you can access justice without upfront financial pressure.
Coronial Lawyer: Matters We Handle
DEATHS IN CUSTODY & POLICE‑RELATED DEATHS
Deaths in police or prison custody, youth detention, or during police operations are among the most serious kinds of coronial matters. Our firm is nationally recognised for its work in deaths in custody and police‑related deaths. We provide robust representation to ensure the Coroner closely examines use of force, supervision, medical care, risk assessments and broader systemic issues, and that strong recommendations are considered.
MEDICAL & HOSPITAL DEATHS
Our coronial and civil litigation lawyers have extensive experience in inquests following deaths in hospitals, mental health facilities, aged care and other medical settings. These matters can involve questions about diagnosis, treatment decisions, medication, observation, discharge planning and communication between clinicians. We work with independent medical experts to identify what went wrong and to seek recommendations that improve patient safety.
WORKPLACE, INDUSTRIAL & PUBLIC INCIDENTS
We act in coronial inquests arising from workplace accidents, construction incidents, mining operations, transport crashes and public safety failures. Our lawyers understand the interaction between coronial investigations, Work Health and Safety regulators and potential civil claims. We focus on uncovering the full circumstances of the death and pushing for practical safety recommendations to prevent similar tragedies.
INSTITUTIONAL & CARE‑RELATED DEATHS
Our team represents families in inquests involving deaths in residential care, group homes, aged care facilities, out‑of‑home care, and other institutional environments. These matters often raise issues of neglect, supervision, staff training, policies and funding. We use our expertise in institutional abuse and civil litigation to ensure the Coroner considers both individual and systemic failures.
MISSING PERSONS & SUSPICIOUS DEATHS
We assist families in suspected death inquests and coronial matters involving unexplained, suspicious or contested causes of death. Our role is to press for a thorough investigation, identify gaps in the evidence, and ensure the Coroner addresses the key questions the family has about what happened and why.
OTHER REPORTABLE DEATHS & COMPLEX CORONIAL ISSUES
As leading civil and public law litigators, our expertise extends to any reportable death, including sudden, unexpected, violent or unnatural deaths, and deaths where medical care or state agencies are involved. We provide comprehensive legal services to guide you through the coronial process, and, where appropriate, advise on related civil proceedings to secure accountability and justice.
Protecting Your Rights: Actions Coronial Lawyers Can Take
At O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors, our team understands that coronial proceedings are often confronting, technical and emotionally exhausting. Here are some of the key ways we can help you in the Coroner’s Court:
Investigating Claims
We obtain and analyse the coronial brief of evidence, including police reports, witness statements, medical and forensic reports, CCTV and expert material. Where necessary, we commission independent experts and make submissions for additional witnesses or documents to be called. Our aim is to ensure the Coroner has all the information needed to properly investigate the death.
Negotiating Settlements
Although the Coroner’s Court itself does not award compensation, coronial findings can support civil claims such as medical negligence, actions against police, or workplace injury proceedings. Our lawyers use what emerges in the inquest to engage with insurers, government agencies and other defendants, negotiating fair settlements that reflect both the human and financial impact of the death.
Litigating in Court Proceedings
We appear for you at directions hearings and inquest hearings, seek leave for you to be recognised as an interested party, and question witnesses on your behalf. We also make detailed written and oral submissions to the Coroner on issues such as cause of death, contributing factors, and recommended changes to policies and systems. Following the inquest, we advise on any further court proceedings or appeals that may be open to you.
Meet Our Civil & Coronial Law Team
With over a decade of experience in complex civil, criminal and public interest litigation, our team has made O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors one of Australia’s leading firms in civil law. Led by firm founder and Principal Solicitor, Peter O’Brien, our dedicated and enthusiastic team has represented clients in inquests and court proceedings across New South Wales and throughout Australia, including appearances connected to matters in the High Court of Australia.
No matter how big or small your coronial matter is, our lawyers will always provide clear advice, trauma‑informed support, and a practical roadmap to achieve the best result possible in the most economical way.
Our team at O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors is led by Law Society Accredited Specialists in Criminal Law and Civil Law. To become an Accredited Specialist, a practitioner must complete a rigorous assessment process, demonstrating a high level of knowledge, skill and experience in their chosen area of law.
The Coronial Inquest Process
1. Free Initial Consultation
If a loved one’s death has been reported to the Coroner, or you believe an inquest should be held, contact O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors for a free consultation. Our lawyers will assess your situation, explain the coronial process in plain language, and discuss how we can represent you in the Coroner’s Court. We will also outline fee options and, where appropriate, how coronial work may link to later civil claims.
2. Investigating & Building Your Case
Your Case: Your lawyer will obtain and carefully review the coronial brief of evidence, medical records and expert reports. We identify the key issues that should be explored at the inquest, any further evidence that needs to be gathered, and whether additional experts or witnesses should be called. This strategic preparation ensures that your questions and concerns are properly put before the Coroner.
3. Communication & Updates
Your lawyer will keep you informed about the progress of the coronial investigation, important dates, and the likely scope of the inquest. We explain court processes in clear terms, help you prepare for giving evidence if required, and consult with you before any significant procedural or strategic decision. You remain at the centre of the process.
4. Pursuing a Resolution
At the inquest hearing, our lawyers will appear on your behalf, question witnesses, and make submissions about findings and recommendations. Once the Coroner delivers their findings, we will discuss the outcome with you, including what it means for accountability, law reform and any potential civil claims. Our goal is to ensure you are supported from first contact through to the conclusion of the matter and beyond.
Remember: The coronial process can be lengthy, technical and emotionally demanding. Seeking expert legal advice is crucial. Our experienced solicitors are here to guide you at every step and to protect your interests in the Coroner’s Court.
What to Do if You Need Help With a Coronial Inquest
If you are seeking answers, accountability or systemic change following the death of a loved one, the Coroner’s Court can be a powerful forum. While it may be a complex and lengthy process, we are here to protect your rights and ensure your voice is heard. A coronial lawyer will build a strong strategy for your involvement in the inquest.
When a Death Has Been Referred to the Coroner
- Document Everything
- Record Details: Write down everything you know about the circumstances of the death, including dates, times, locations, who was present, and what was said or done by police, medical staff or other agencies.
- Collect Evidence: Keep letters from the Coroner’s Court, police, hospitals or other institutions, as well as medical records, photographs and any relevant messages.
- Seek Legal Advice Immediately
- Consult a Lawyer: A specialist coronial lawyer will provide an honest assessment of your situation, advise you on your rights as next of kin or an interested party, and help you decide how actively you wish to participate.
- Understand Your Case: Your lawyer will explain the coronial investigation, the role of the Coroner, possible outcomes, and how the inquest may interact with criminal, disciplinary or civil proceedings.
- Look After Your Wellbeing
- Emotional Support: Coronial matters can be re‑traumatising. We encourage you to seek support from counsellors, community organisations and, where appropriate, culturally specific services. We work in a trauma‑informed way and can connect you with support where needed.
If You Are Unsure Whether an Inquest Will Be Held
- Ask Questions and Act Quickly
- Request Information: You may be able to ask the Coroner’s Court or relevant authority whether an inquest is planned. If no inquest is proposed, there are sometimes avenues to request one or seek reasons.
- Get Legal Help: A lawyer can draft written submissions urging the Coroner to hold an inquest or to expand the scope of an existing investigation.
- Clarify Your Goals
- Focus Your Concerns: Decide what you most want from the process, clearer facts, recognition of failings, recommendations, or support for a later civil claim.
- Tailor the Strategy: Your goals will guide which witnesses and issues your lawyer pushes to have examined at the inquest.
General Tips for All Coronial Proceedings
- Act Quickly
- Timely Action: The earlier you obtain legal advice, the better your chances of influencing the scope of the inquest, preserving crucial evidence, and making sure your questions are put before the Coroner.
- Evidence Preservation: Swift action helps secure medical records, CCTV footage, internal policies, and statements from witnesses while memories are still fresh.
- Know Your Rights
- Right to Compensation: As a family member, you may have rights to be kept informed about the investigation, to receive certain documents, and to attend and participate in the inquest.
- Legal Guidance: At O’Brien’s, our coronial and civil litigation lawyers will guide you through the process, explain your options, outline any costs, and advocate for you in court to ensure your loved one’s story is heard.
Remember: Don’t face the Coroner’s Court alone. Let the coronial and civil law experts at O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors guide you through the process. Whether the death involves police, medical care, a workplace or an institution, we will strive to secure answers, accountability and, where appropriate, compensation by offering practical, compassionate and expert advice.
Voices of Justice: Client Reviews
Read what clients of O’Brien Criminal and Civil Lawyers have said in Google Reviews after we’ve helped clients restore their good names.
Peter O'Brien (with his superb team) has been a phenomenal blessing to me. He believed me, supported me, and undertook extensive detective work and archive research in the preparation of my case culminating in a legal precedent that will be referred to by future court decisions. It has been a stressful 9 years from beginning to end and Peter was steadfast the entire time. Thank you Peter
Absolute best in the business, I had the pleasure of Peter running one of my civil cases and to say he and his team went above and beyond is an understatement, Peter and his team are both professional and friendly, can't thank you guys enough, one would say the Lamborghini of defence.
Used O'Brien solicitors for both my criminal law case which they managed to get all charges dismissed when I was looking down the barrel of 18 months jail. Then even more impressively ran my civil claim vs the police and I got a very good outcome and substantial pay out. Easy to talk to and actually listened and took my opinion into consideration which is a first. Highly recommend!
I contacted O’Brien Solicitors after an incident involving NSW Police. The matter was based around Police behaviour in a Domestic Violence situation involving myself and members of my family. After hearing the details, Peter agreed to represent us on a no-win no-fee basis. Although potentially extremely stressful, Peter and his team made the whole process a lot easier than I had anticipated. The whole team at O’Brien's were terrific. The matter was settled and we were very happy with the outcome and, as promised, there were no fees payable by us. I couldn’t recommend this firm highly enough.
I first got in touch with O'Brien's after I posted online about my family member's situation. Peter O'Brien messaged me personally and referred me to two amazing lawyers in his firm; Wilson and Sidnie. Outstanding attention to detail and empathy. Legal Aid was available, and the case was handled with a lot of care which led to a very positive outcome. Additional legal support was offered following the outcome, without having to ask. Highly recommended for both criminal and civil matters. Thank you!
They stick up for the little guy. Keep it up!
O'Brien solicitors represented me in very complicated civil proceedings. From day one, I was greatly impressed by the knowledge and professionalism of the entire team at O'Brien solicitors. After a year of court proceedings, the matter was finalised in my favour and I could not have expected such a great outcome.
O'Brien Solicitors are a highly capable and professional team who are very generous with their time and are willing to pursue justice against those powers that be. Peter and Sidnie agreed to represent the Refugee Action Coalition at short notice in court to defend the right to protest and prepared an excellent defence. They come up with legal avenues and solutions that many others have missed. Highly recommended. After a year of court proceedings, the matter was finalised in my favour and I could not have expected such a great outcome.
Ordinary people standing up against inhumanity, abuses of power and for a better world need to know someone has their back when their own rights are abused. Thank you.
As a victim of police brutality, I was dismayed by the total lack of concern and a refusal to investigate the complaint I made in writing to the NSW Police and NSW Ombudsman. Even before I contacted Peter O'Briens Solicitors, I was encouraged by the information and positive attitude shown on their website. Peter O'Brien and the team at O'Briens Solicitors have been wonderfully helpful and supportive in seeking legal redress through the Courts. I wholeheartedly recommend Peter O'Brien’s Solicitors to anyone who has experienced police misconduct and had their rights trammelled by heavy-handed police officers.
FAQs
What is a coronial inquest?
A coronial inquest is a court hearing where a coroner investigates the circumstances of a death. The coroner looks at who died, when and where they died, and how and why the death occurred.
In New South Wales, the Coroner’s Court operates under the Coroners Act 2009. The focus is on fact‑finding and preventing similar deaths in future, not on deciding civil or criminal liability.
Do all deaths go to a coronial inquest?
No. Many deaths are reported to the coroner, but only a small percentage proceed to a formal inquest.
Inquests are more likely where the death is sudden, unexpected, violent, in custody, in an institution, or where there are public interest or systemic issues. In some situations (for example, deaths in custody), an inquest is mandatory.
Can I ask for an inquest to be held?
Yes. If an inquest has not been listed, close family members or other interested parties can usually write to the Coroner’s Court requesting that an inquest be held.
Your request should explain why an inquest is in the public interest, for example, unanswered questions, potential systemic failures or the need for safety recommendations. A lawyer can help you prepare this application and respond if the coroner asks for more information.
What is the purpose of a coronial inquest?
The main purposes are to:
- Establish the identity of the deceased and when, where and how they died
- Examine the circumstances surrounding the death, including any contributing factors
- Make comments or recommendations aimed at preventing similar deaths and improving systems or practices
Coronial inquests are not about awarding compensation or deciding guilt, but the findings can be very important for later civil or disciplinary action.
Do I need a lawyer for a coronial inquest?
You are not legally required to have a lawyer, but inquests can be complex, formal and emotionally difficult.
A lawyer can help you:
- Obtain and understand the brief of evidence
- Ask the coroner to call particular witnesses or seek extra documents
- Question witnesses at the inquest
- Make submissions about findings and recommendations
- Understand what the outcome means for any civil or other proceedings
For families dealing with a death involving police, medical care, a workplace or an institution, specialist legal representation is often very important.
How long does a coronial inquest take?
The overall coronial investigation, from report of the death to final findings, can take many months and sometimes years.
The inquest hearing itself may run from a single day to several weeks, depending on:
- The complexity of the issues
- The number of witnesses and experts
- Whether there are multiple parties involved
Your lawyer can give you an estimate once the brief of evidence and court timetable are known.
What happens at a coronial inquest hearing?
At the inquest:
- The coroner opens the hearing and identifies the key issues
- Witnesses (including experts, police and other professionals) are called to give evidence under oath
- Lawyers and approved interested parties can ask questions
- At the end, parties may make oral or written submissions
The coroner then adjourns to consider the evidence and later delivers written findings and, where appropriate, recommendations.
Will the inquest decide if someone is to blame?
The coroner may comment on actions, omissions or systemic failures that contributed to a death, but they do not decide civil liability or impose criminal penalties.
However, findings can highlight serious failings and may be referred to regulators, professional bodies or law enforcement. They can also provide a powerful foundation for later civil claims, such as negligence or actions against police or institutions.
Can coronial findings be used in later legal action?
Coronial findings and evidence can be highly influential in later civil or disciplinary proceedings, but they are not always admissible in the same way as in ordinary court cases.
Your solicitor will advise how the inquest material can be used to support claims such as medical negligence, workplace injury, institutional abuse or actions against police, and what further evidence may still be required.
How much will it cost to have a lawyer at an inquest?
Costs vary depending on the complexity and length of the matter. At the outset, you should receive a clear costs agreement explaining:
- Hourly rates or fixed fees
- What work is included (evidence review, conferences, in‑court representation)
- Likely disbursements such as expert reports or transcripts
While “no win, no fee” usually applies to civil compensation claims rather than the inquest itself, some coronial matters are run alongside or in preparation for civil proceedings, and funding options can sometimes be structured to reduce upfront financial pressure. Your solicitor can explain what is possible in your situation.
Civil Law Case Studies
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Sexual Abuse by Police Officer: Brave survivor receives justice after suffering abuse by a
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