A protocol mapping out an informal resolution route if legal professionals have a concern about a coroner’s behaviour has been released by the chief coroner.
The protocol, which will not replace the formal complaints process, follows a similar protocol released by the judiciary earlier this month. Announcing the coronial protocol’s publication, the judiciary said it ‘aims to promote professionalism, respect and confidence within the coroner service’.
Serious concerns such as allegations of bullying, harassment, discrimination, misconduct or ‘repeated’ inappropriate behaviour should still be referred to the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office, the short document notes. It adds: ‘Coroners are expected to foster a working environment where diversity is recognised and valued, and everyone is treated with courtesy, dignity, and respect. Therefore, all coroners should all be open to feedback if their actions may have caused discomfort or offence.’
Legal professionals who wish to raise a concern can do so informally via either a direct or indirect approach, which the protocol sets out, as well as the expected action following a concern being raised.
Concerns raised directly with the coroner should ‘normally’ be raised ‘after the conclusion of an inquest and in private’ and the legal professional ‘should give some indication in advance of what it is they wish to discuss’.
An indirect approach would mean the concern is raised with either the relevant senior coroner or, if the concern relates to the senior coroner, the chief coroner or deputy chief coroner.
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