Fatal accident inquiries (FAI) are a Scottish legal process. Doctors and other healthcare professionals can be involved in FAI in a variety of ways. This medical advisory guide explains what an FAI is, by outlining the purpose, the process, and the various roles of those involved.
You might have heard of different positions and terminology associated with FAIs, such as the Procurator Fiscal, Crown Office (sometimes known as the COPFS), Lord Advocate and Sheriff. This guide explains how these roles input to the FAI process, and who is responsible for what. The guide also outlines situations in which FAIs will be held, how they are conducted, and their purpose.
The MDDUS guide to FAIs will assist members in Scotland who have been contacted by the Procurator Fiscal for a report or statement (sometimes called a precognition), or those who have been called to attend an FAI hearing as a witness or interested party. Our guide offers practical general advice, and signposts where to get further help and support. If a healthcare professional is to attend to give evidence, it is usually advisable to seek appropriate medicolegal advice as early into the process as possible.
This guide is a useful tool for anyone wanting to learn more about FAIs, as well as offering general advice and support for those personally involved. As a benefit of membership with MDDUS, the guide is free for you to download and refer back to whenever needed.
You might have heard of different positions and terminology associated with FAIs, such as the Procurator Fiscal, Crown Office (sometimes known as the COPFS), Lord Advocate and Sheriff. This guide explains how these roles input to the FAI process, and who is responsible for what. The guide also outlines situations in which FAIs will be held, how they are conducted, and their purpose.
The MDDUS guide to FAIs will assist members in Scotland who have been contacted by the Procurator Fiscal for a report or statement (sometimes called a precognition), or those who have been called to attend an FAI hearing as a witness or interested party. Our guide offers practical general advice, and signposts where to get further help and support. If a healthcare professional is to attend to give evidence, it is usually advisable to seek appropriate medicolegal advice as early into the process as possible.
This guide is a useful tool for anyone wanting to learn more about FAIs, as well as offering general advice and support for those personally involved. As a benefit of membership with MDDUS, the guide is free for you to download and refer back to whenever needed.
This page was correct at the time of publication. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.
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