What if the death happened in custody or prison?
The inquest has an additional function where the death occurred while the person was under the care of the state or a Government agency – for instance, a death in custody or prison. Article 2 of the European Convention of Human Rights applies, and the Coroner investigates whether the individual’s ‘right to life’ has been breached by the state failing to protect them. Such cases will almost always have a jury. The inquest must examine in detail the circumstances surrounding the death. It is for the Coroner to then make any appropriate report to prevent similar occurrences happening in the future.
