The book explains the role and objectives of the inquest. It highlights the forms of investigations in several types of fatal accident and gives guidance about the central legal issues and matters of case preparation and presentation.

Starting with chapters on the law and the lawyer’s preparation, it then discusses what the police do and why, the place of the autopsy, coroner’s enquiries and recommendations, and the reasons for and extent of media interest. It covers the forms of investigations in road accidents, natural disasters, drug overdoses, medical or surgical mishaps, pathology and sudden unexpected infant death. It emphasises that inquests are collaborative ventures, often multi-disciplinary events and multi-party, too.

Derrick W Hand, New South Wales State Coroner, recommends the book:
“The Inquest Handbook is of great importance because it contains up-to-date, comprehensive information by persons considered expert in their field. Not only will it help those working in the coronial jurisdiction, it will also help others to understand the coronial process.”