Coroners and Justice Act 2009

This page provides an overview of the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 for police officers, helping them understand key sections of the law and how it applies in their duties.

Overview

The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 reforms the law on coroners, criminal evidence, and witnesses. It introduces new measures for investigating suspicious deaths and the handling of sensitive evidence.

Key Powers under the Law

The law gives police and coroners powers to investigate deaths in certain circumstances, demand autopsies, and collect evidence regarding the cause of death.

Important Sections for Police Officers

• Section 1: Reforms the role of coroners and police in investigating suspicious or unnatural deaths.
• Section 51: Provides rules for the admissibility of evidence in trials, particularly relating to vulnerable witnesses.

What You Can Do Under This Law

Officers can work with coroners to investigate suspicious deaths, collect forensic evidence, and request autopsies or other post-mortem investigations. They can also apply protective measures for vulnerable witnesses in court.

How to Request or Apply

Officers should:

• Step 1: Contact the coroner if a death appears suspicious or unnatural.
• Step 2: Collect evidence and assist in the investigation as requested by the coroner.