A consultation has been launched today on the draft Fatal Accident Inquiries Rules, and will run until 23 January, 2017.

The draft rules set out how inquiries will work in practice. They aim to make the best use of court time and encourage the efficient progress of proceedings.

The rules give sheriffs broad powers to actively manage inquiries and tailor procedures to best suit the nature and complexity of each inquiry.

They also call for more work to be done at an early, preliminary stage of the proceedings with those taking part agreeing as much evidence as possible before the inquiry begins. This is to enable the hearing to better focus on the issues.

The Rules were developed by a Council working group chaired by Sheriff Principal Abercrombie.

If you would like to take part in the consultation, please use the form provided.