The lead forensic medical examiner for the States of Jersey Police is set to take on a new role as the island’s first assistant coroner.
In this new part-time judicial post, Dr Deryn Evans will work with the Viscount and Deputy Viscount in all aspects of the management of sudden and unexpected deaths.
She will also carry out her own coronial investigations, manage cases, and conduct inquests.
Dr Evans is due to be in post from the beginning of September.
She said: “I’m honoured to have been offered this new role, supporting the Viscount and Deputy Viscount in coronial duties.
“I am committed to conducting thorough and compassionate investigations, ensuring the community receives care, respect and transparency in the most difficult of circumstances.”
This is a new role to assist with the busy and demanding work of the coroner
Viscount Advocate Mark Harris
The Viscount, Advocate Mark Harris, added: “I am delighted to appoint Dr Deryn Evans. This is a new role to assist with the busy and demanding work of the coroner.
“She has an extensive background in forensic medicine and experience of the courts, an inquisitive and enquiring mind, as well as the interpersonal skills necessary to deal with matters sensitively.”
Dr Evans is an experienced medical practitioner with specialist qualifications in medico-legal medicine.
As well as working as the police’s lead forensic medical examiner, she is also a medical expert specialising in adult and paediatric sexual offences, offers GP services to homeless and vulnerable adults, and works as a cremation medical referee.
Dr Evans is the current Academic Dean of the Faculty of Forensic & Legal Medicine of the Royal College of Physicians.
She recently completed medical examiner training run by the Royal College of Pathologists.
Dr Evans was appointed as assistant coroner following a recruitment process overseen by the Jersey Appointments Commission.