Understanding the inquest list
We use abbreviations in the inquest list to keep it easy to read, but we know not everyone will understand what they mean. Here are explanations of the abbreviations we use the most.
O&A
O&A stands for 'open and adjourn'. This means that the actual inquest will take place at a later date. This is because the coroner needs to get more information before they can decide on a cause of death.
O&C
O&C stands for 'open and conclude'. This means that the inquest will be finished in one day. At the end, the coroner will make a decision about the cause of death.
Pre-inquest review (PIR)
A pre-inquest review is a hearing, or hearings, which are held before the inquest takes place. A pre-inquest review is used if an inquest will be very complex. It will decide on things like what the inquest will cover, what information will be needed, and which witnesses and experts will need to attend.