Narrative conclusions

Where a short form conclusion is not enough, the coroner or jury will outline more descriptive factual findings in a narrative conclusion.

These can be anything from one or two sentences in length to a longer paragraph. Occasionally, if a jury is present, the coroner may draw up a questionnaire which captures the key points heard at the inquest to help them to reach a narrative conclusion.

If there is evidence of very serious failings, a coroner might combine a short form conclusion with the phrase ‘contributed to by neglect’, e.g. ‘natural causes, contributed to by neglect’. ‘Neglect’ has a very narrow meaning legally and is not used in the same way at an inquest as how it might be used ordinarily. If you are not sure about this, it is sensible to speak to your lawyer.