Citation

Tormey WP. J. Forensic Leg. Med. 2015; 32: 47-52.

Affiliation

Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulster, Cromore Road, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, UK. Electronic address: billtormey@gmail.com.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.jflm.2015.02.016

PMID

25882150

Abstract

Newspapers devote regular space to inquests in the public interest. Accuracy in determining the causes of death is important for public health. Expert opinion features prominently in press reports and is an important channel of public education. How expert are the experts and how complex are apparently simple cases? Toxicology cases involving cannabis and stroke, 'junk food' diet, unexplained sudden death, potential drug interactions, allergy during caesarean section, and ecstacy-type drugs are used to illustrate the complexities. A template for reform is suggested to reform the Coroners Laws in Ireland to recognise the complexity of forensic toxicology and medicine.

Language: en