“Can I get a certificate?” - Invoking the Privilege Against Self-Incrimination in Coronial Proceedings

On 19 May 2025, the Bar Association’s Legal Assistance Referral Scheme (LARS) will commence its Coronial Inquests Pilot Program (CIPP). The CIPP expands the scope of LARS by creating a new referral process to facilitate requests for advice by unrepresented witnesses called to give evidence in coronial proceedings. Referrals will be limited to witnesses seeking advice regarding the operation of s 61 of the Coroners Act 2009 (NSW) and the privilege against self-incrimination in coronial proceedings. Practitioners will soon be invited to register their interest in participating in the CIPP.

The Inquests and Inquiries Committee is hosting an information session for those practitioners interested in participating in the CIPP. The session will cover the operation of the CIPP, identifying when the privilege might arise, and the practical stages involved in invoking the privilege. The session will be of particular interest to members of the junior bar who may be interested in joining the CIPP and in learning about the coronial jurisdiction more generally.

Speakers:

- Ian Fraser, Frederick Jordan Chambers

- Juliet Curtin, Alinea Chambers

Chair:  Rob Ranken SC, 12 Wentworth Selborne Chambers

Please note: Only NSW barristers or members of the NSW Bar Association can register for CPD’s or webinars.