Inquests are often prompted by sudden, unexplained, or potentially preventable deaths. They are legal investigations, not criminal trials, but the outcomes can provide vital information that helps grieving families understand what happened—and what may have gone wrong.
The recent inquest into the death of Jay Slater, a 19-year-old from Lancashire, demonstrates how inquests work and why they matter. While Jay’s case involved a tragic accident abroad and not a medical error, the inquest process itself provides a framework that families often rely on to uncover the truth—especially in cases involving potential clinical negligence.
At O’Donnell Solicitors, we help families across Greater Manchester, the North West and beyond navigate the inquest process with compassion and legal clarity. Where there is reason to suspect that poor medical care contributed to a death, an inquest can become the foundation of a medical negligence claim.
The Jay Slater Inquest: A Snapshot
Jay Slater’s inquest concluded in July 2025, ruling that he died accidentally after falling from a height in Tenerife. The coroner found that he was alone in a hazardous area without mobile service or navigation, having set out on foot on a long walk back to his accommodation. The case revealed how inquests can uncover important facts—such as environmental risks and communication breakdowns—even if no party is found directly at fault. Though this inquest did not relate to healthcare or negligence, it highlighted a crucial truth: inquests play a pivotal role in helping families find answers after unexpected deaths.
What Is an Inquest?
An inquest is a public hearing held by a coroner to establish:
- Who died
- When and where they died
- How they died – the most important question
It is not a trial, and it does not assign blame. However, the evidence heard at an inquest—such as medical records, witness evidence, and expert opinions—can reveal whether the death was preventable or linked to substandard care.
When Medical Negligence Is Suspected
If a death occurs under medical care—such as in a hospital, care home, or GP setting—and the circumstances raise questions about the quality of that care, a coroner may call an inquest. Common examples include:
- Missed or delayed diagnoses (e.g. cancer, sepsis)
- Surgical errors or post-operative complications
- Medication mistakes
- Inadequate monitoring or failure to act on symptoms
- Deaths in mental health settings or under the Mental Health Act
In such cases, the inquest is often the first and only opportunity to:
- Access key documents and medical evidence.
- Cross-examine treating clinicians.
- Understand the decisions that were made in the lead up to the death.
The Legal Link: From Inquest to Medical Negligence Claim
Whilst a coroner cannot award compensation, the findings from an inquest can be used as the starting point for a medical negligence claim. For example:
- If the coroner’s verdict or narrative conclusion highlights failings in care, or raises concerns about procedure or decision-making, this may support a claim for damages under the Fatal Accidents Act 1976 or Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1934.
- The specialist medical negligence solicitors at O’Donnell Solicitors can use the evidence gathered at the inquest (including expert evidence and hospital documentation) to pursue a claim on behalf of the deceased’s estate and dependents.
- Damages may be awarded for loss of financial support, funeral expenses, bereavement damages, and more.
How O’Donnell Solicitors Support Families Through the Inquest Process
We understand that bereaved families are often dealing with grief, confusion, and a desire for answers. Our inquest and fatal claims solicitors provide:
- Full Legal Representation – We attend pre-inquest reviews, advise on the scope of the coroner’s inquiry, and represent you at the inquest hearing to ensure your voice is heard.
- Independent Medical Expertise – If needed, we help obtain expert opinions to challenge or verify clinical decisions.
- Strategic Claim Advice – If the inquest reveals evidence of substandard care, we advise you on your right to bring a medical negligence claim and help you understand your legal options clearly and sensitively.
- Joined-Up Legal Support – Our team handles both inquest proceedings and any resulting fatal claim, ensuring continuity, efficiency, and a deep understanding of your case.
Why Choose O’Donnell Solicitors?
Our specialist solicitors are experienced in:
- Supporting families through complex inquests involving hospitals, care homes, and mental health units.
- Handling fatal medical negligence claims with empathy and professionalism.
- Providing clear advice, fixed-fee consultations, and no-win-no-fee options where appropriate.
If You’ve Lost a Loved One, Let Us Help You Find Answers
The inquest system can feel daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether your loved one died in hospital, in care, or under uncertain circumstances, O’Donnell Solicitors can guide you through every step—protecting your rights and ensuring the full truth is heard.
Contact Ken Lees to arrange a free initial consultation on 01457 761 320 or Kenneth.Lees@odonnellsolicitors.co.uk.
