CORONERS ACT 2009 - SECT 57 Representation in coronial proceedings

CORONERS ACT 2009 - SECT 57

57 Representation in coronial proceedings

(cf Coroners Act 1980 , s 32(1) and (2))

(1) The coroner in coronial proceedings may grant leave to any person, who in the opinion of the coroner has a sufficient interest in the subject-matter of the proceedings, to appear in person in the proceedings or to be represented by an Australian legal practitioner.

(2) Any person granted such leave may examine and cross-examine any witnesses on matters relevant to the proceedings.

(3) A coroner holding an inquest concerning the death or suspected death of a person must grant leave under subsection (1) to any person who is a relative of the deceased person (or suspected deceased person) unless the coroner is satisfied that there are exceptional circumstances that justify the coroner refusing leave.

(4) If an inquest or inquiry is held before a jury--

(a) a person appearing, and an Australian legal practitioner representing a person, at the inquest or inquiry is entitled to make an opening and a closing address to the jury, and

(b) the person assisting the coroner may make an opening and a closing address to the jury and in addition has a right of reply in respect of any closing address made pursuant to paragraph (a).