Explanatory Notes

Coroners and Justice Act 2009

2009 CHAPTER 25

12 November 2009

The Act

Commentary on Sections

Part 1 - Coroners etc
Chapter 1: Investigations into deaths
Section 9: Determinations and findings by jury

91.A jury will be initially directed by the senior coroner to reach a unanimous determination or finding. If the coroner thinks that they have deliberated for a reasonable time without reaching a unanimous verdict, under subsection (2), he or she may accept a determination or finding on which the minority consists of no more than two persons. Also under subsection (2), the jury spokesperson should announce publicly how many agreed. If the required number of jurors does not agree, under subsection (3) the coroner may discharge the jury and summon a completely new jury and the case will be heard again.