Goldie’s daughter Kate was dropped to a Queensland hospital by an unknown person and later died there. It was unclear what led Kate to be two hours away from where she usually resides and how the individual had found her and taken her to hospital.

Goldie spent years writing to the Coroners Court requesting further investigations. Goldie was concerned that Kate’s death and the investigation into the circumstances around her death were minimised because Kate had drugs in her system.

Caxton assisted Goldie through the inquest process by liaising with the Coroners Court in relation to her questions and concerns, by representing her in court and by providing emotional and practical support throughout the process.

Goldie wanted to know how and with whom Kate arrived at the hospital. We requested the brief of evidence, made submissions about the adequacy of police investigation, questioned witnesses and made submissions to the coroner at the conclusion of inquest about the findings that should be made about the circumstances of Kate’s death.

Goldie was supported by a Caxton solicitor and social worker, and represented by a (pro bono) barrister during six days of court attendance. Meetings were held to ensure consistent messaging and submissions at court. Goldie indicated that this was invaluable as it reassured her that her questions and concerns would be advocated for in court.

We provided social work support to prepare Goldie for the emotional toll of the hearing. As rapport and trust was built, Goldie shared that she had been experiencing financial abuse in her relationship and was not emotionally supported by her partner. We arranged financial counselling for Goldie and referred her to another community legal centre to advise about property rights.

Goldie expressed that she felt surprisingly inspired by the coronial process after initially dreading the days in court. She has considered returning to study law or social work due to her experience.

Goldie gained details about the last day of her daughter’s life. She now understands the extent of police investigation and how decisions were made. Goldie was supported to grieve and is now able to share her concerns about shame and stigma that surrounds death associated with drug use.

Goldie was given information in a way that allowed her to process, respond and participate fully in the legal processes of the Coroners Court. Goldie felt supported while going through the extremely difficult process of an inquest.