Coroners Court: COVID-19 Past Alert Level 3 Protocol

Chief Coroner Deborah Marshall
23 April 2020

Coroners are able to conduct most of their work “on the papers”.  That is, without the need for a Court hearing.  Alert Level 3 will not impact on coroners receiving new files, making directions on files and making written findings.

Coroners have now begun to identify cases where an inquest is to be held and where the inquest is amenable to being held safely.  This may involve some audio-visual link (“AVL”)  component and restriction of numbers allowed in the courtroom.

All pre-inquest hearings can conducted by teleconference or AVL.  Any applications for non-publication orders are generally conducted “on the papers.”

For inquests that proceed, the Court sites will be thoroughly cleaned daily.  Cleaning will be monitored by site managers.  Each courtroom will be cleaned after each use.  Personal protective equipment (PPE) will be available for staff and security.  Counsel and participants may use their own PPE.