Understanding the Legal Aspects of Death: Inquests, Post Mortem Examinations, Death Certificates, Probate, and Wills

Inquests are official investigations into the cause of death, usually held by a coroner or other legal authority. The purpose of an inquest is to determine the facts surrounding a death, and to make a finding as to how the person died. Inquests are often held in cases where the cause of death is not immediately known, or where there are suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.

12. What is a post mortem examination ?
Ans. A post mortem examination (also called an autopsy) is a medical examination of a dead body to determine the cause of death or to gather information about the deceased person's health. The examination typically involves a thorough examination of the body, including the internal organs, and may involve taking samples of tissue or other bodily fluids for further testing.

13. What is a death certificate ?
Ans. A death certificate is an official document that records the cause of death and other relevant information about a deceased person. It is typically issued by a doctor or other medical professional who has examined the body and verified the cause of death. The death certificate is used to establish the fact of death and to provide proof of the circumstances surrounding the death.

14. What is probate ?
Ans. Probate is the legal process of settling a deceased person's estate, including identifying and gathering their assets, paying their debts and taxes, and distributing what's left to their heirs or beneficiaries. Probate is necessary when someone dies with assets that are only in their name, such as a bank account, real estate, or a vehicle.

15. What is a will ?
Ans. A will is a legal document that outlines how a person wants their assets to be distributed after they die. It also names an executor, who is responsible for carrying out the instructions in the will. Wills can be used to specify gifts of money or property to specific individuals, to create trusts, and to name guardians for minor children.