Observations on Coroners

"Observations on Coroners" by William Hewitt is a mid-19th century exploration of the coroner's role, particularly during inquests. It underscores how these officials determine the cause of death and identifies significant issues caused by their lack of skills and understanding. Hewitt presents various case studies that showcase both competent and flawed inquiries, revealing how coroners' decisions affect justice and medical understanding. His main argument is that the legal system and appropriate respect for human life rely on the coroner having enough medical experience to make informed decisions; he pushes for selecting more qualified people for the job.