Coroners
Magistrates Court - Coroners Court
Who are the Queensland coroners?
Queensland has two full time coroners. The State Coroner, Mr Michael Barnes and the Deputy State Coroner/Brisbane Coroner, Ms Christine Clements.
All Queensland magistrates are also appointed as coroners and act in that role when required.
State coroner
The state coroner oversees and coordinates the Queensland coronial system to ensure that it is administered efficiently and appropriately. The state coroner issues guidelines and provides directions to other coroners about the conduct of coronial investigations.The state coroner investigates deaths in custody and more complex reportable deaths.
Deputy state coroner
The deputy state coroner is primarily responsible for coronial investigations into deaths that occur in the Brisbane area.The deputy state coroner may also investigate deaths in custody and acts as the state coroner when required.
Local coroners
All Queensland magistrates are able to act as coroners.The coroner who is located closest to the place of death takes responsibility for the coronial investigation unless it is transferred to the state coroner.
Which coroner is dealing with a coronial investigation?
Usually reportable deaths are dealt with by the coroner who has jurisdiction for the area in which the person died. Exceptions apply for deaths in custody which are investigated by the state coroner and the deputy state coroner. The state coroner also investigates the more complex reportable deaths. If you are unsure which Coroner is handling the investigation you should contact the Office of the State Coroner for further assistance.
Last updated Monday, 19 November 2007 13:44
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