Information for Press and Public

Inquests are generally held in open court where members of the public and press have the right to attend.   There will generally be space available in the courtroom for press and public.

Coroner's Officers will not be able give out any information about a deceased person in advance of an Inquest, except to confirm whether an Inquest has been opened, when the Inquest is listed and the time of a planned hearing. 

All media enquiries are handled by the Communications & Engagement Team of West Sussex County Council.

Email pressoffice@westsussex.gov.uk or phone 0330 222 8090.

Further information can be found here: Press Office contacts - West Sussex County Council.

• Press and public attending court

  Members of the press or public wishing to attend a hearing are asked to arrive in good time before the start of the inquest, make themselves known at Reception and go to the appropriate court waiting area as directed so that the clerk of the court can then seat press and public in the appropriate ar..

• Remote observation of hearings

  Open justice The Coroner’s Service welcomes and supports transparency of court proceedings. Inquest and Pre-Inquest Review hearings in the jurisdiction will generally be held in open court with members of the public and the media all welcome to attend...

• Obtaining documents after the Inquest

  Requesting a copy of the Record of Inquest The Record of Inquest will be made available to all Interested Persons by the Coroners Officer free of charge. Please contact the relevant Coroners Officer to request a copy...