Inquest index 1942-1963

This index has been compiled from NRS-346 Card register to inquests and magisterial inquiries Jul 1942 to Jun 1963 which is a part index to inquest files NRS-345 Coroners’ inquest papers (Files concerning inquests, magisterial inquiries and inquests dispensed with) 1851-1963.

The index records: inquest number, name or particulars of fire, date, location, coroner and remarks for the period Jul 1942 to Jun 1963 only.

Please note some of the files may not have survived.

• Record series in the index: NRS 345, NRS 346
• Entries in the index: 45,547 entries
• Copy service available

A note about the inquest files

The inquest papers relate to inquests and inquiries held throughout New South Wales.

Prior to the implementation of the Coroner’s (Amendment) Act 1963, the depositions of witness appearing before Coroners were required to be transmitted to the Under Secretary, Department of Justice.

Each file was given a number on registration. Each file may include: particulars of the deceased and the circumstances of death; copies of testimonies and of statements by the police, medical officers or others concerned with the reporting of the death; a list of witnesses; and a copy of the coroners’ finding as to the cause of death. Where the inquiry concerns a fire, information includes the address of the dwelling, the names of the occupants and owners, a list of witnesses and the coroner’s findings as to the cause of the fire. In some cases a list of exhibits, and exhibits such as photographs of premises, are included.

If further court action arose out of the inquest, the inquest papers may be filed with the later court papers.

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