When a patient dies and medicines are involved, pharmacists may find themselves drawn into the inquest process. This can be daunting. An inquest is not about blaming individuals, but the way you give evidence, and the way your role is scrutinised, can have lasting consequences for your reputation and career.
At Gordons Partnership, we represent pharmacists and pharmacy businesses called to take part in inquests. We make sure you understand the process, prepare thoroughly, and present your evidence in a clear and professional way.
An inquest is a formal court investigation into the circumstances of a person’s death. Coroners are responsible for establishing:
If dispensed medicines are thought to have played a role, pharmacists and pharmacy teams may be asked to give evidence.
Pharmacists may be called to inquests in situations such as:
Even if you were not directly involved, your pharmacy may still be asked to provide records or explain procedures.
Contact from the Coroner
If you have received a letter from the coroner then you should seek advice from a legal professional or your indemnifier.
For pharmacists, inquests can have significant implications:
Having legal support ensures you are prepared, protected, and supported throughout the process.
We act for pharmacists at every stage of the inquest process, including:
Our aim is to make the process as clear and straightforward as possible, so you can focus on giving accurate and confident evidence.
Our experience includes:
Your role is to provide factual evidence. You are not on trial, but the coroner may ask detailed questions about your actions and procedures.
Not directly. However, evidence given at inquest can trigger regulatory investigations by the GPhC or NHS bodies.
It is strongly advised. A lawyer ensures your evidence is prepared, protects you during questioning, and manages any legal implications.
If the coroner identifies risks that could cause future deaths, they may issue a PFD report. This can place obligations on pharmacists or pharmacy businesses to change practices.
No. Inquests are not about attributing blame. However, the evidence may still be used by regulators or others after the hearing.
Waiting until the hearing to seek advice is risky. Early involvement means we can:
Our Approach
We know inquests are stressful and sensitive. Our role is to:
If you need advice on any aspect of pharmacy law, please do not hesitate to contact our specialist pharmacy team.
If you are involved in an inquest, do not face it alone. Clear legal advice makes the process less daunting and protects your position for the future.
Gordons Partnership – clarity and confidence in legal advice, from people you can trust.
Call us on 01483 451900
Email Susan Hunneyball to arrange a free initial consultation.
