Cross examination of clinicians at coroners' inquests following deaths in custody

Abstract

Purpose

This article draws upon the international literature to focus on the investigation of prisoner deaths in England and Wales, concentrating on clinician involvement in this process.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a viewpoint paper regarding clinician involvement in coroner investigations of prisoner deaths in England and Wales.

Findings

Compared to colleagues practising in the community, the authors suggest that there is a higher burden of investigation upon clinicians practicing in secure environments and recommend improved training for prison clinicians regarding expectations of the coroner's inquest and also a system whereby questioning in coroners' courts is directed through the coroner.

Originality/value

This paper provides an updated perspective on the issue of coroner investigations following a death in prison custody, from the position of practising prison clinicians.

Citation

Wright, N., Tompkins, C.N.E. and Mohammed, Z. (2012), "Cross examination of clinicians at coroners' inquests following deaths in custody", International Journal of Prisoner Health, Vol. 8 No. 3/4, pp. 92-98. https://doi.org/10.1108/17449201211284969