The coroner's inquest

In the awful circumstances of the death of a mother or baby around childbirth, midwives need to be prepared for what happens afterwards. This article sets out some top tips for midwives appearing at a coroner's court with practical advice from Peter Straker, Coroner for West Yorkshire (Western District). You should be respectful, say how very sorry you are for the death, dress well, make sure you read your notes before the hearing and of course be open, honest and truthful. You must also be prepared to answer questions from the family of the deceased as well as from the Coroner.