The government of Saint Lucia has appointed the country’s first official coroner following the establishment of a dedicated Coroners Court within the jurisdiction of the Magistrates’ Courts.
Desma Charles was appointed to the newly created position by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission, marking what officials described as a significant step in modernizing the island’s justice system.
According to the Office of the Prime Minister, the establishment of the Coroners Court responds to the increasing need for a specialized judicial mechanism to investigate deaths occurring in unnatural but non-criminal circumstances. These include deaths in custody, fatal accidents, suspected suicides, and other incidents involving public safety concerns.
Officials said the court will help families, public agencies, and investigators obtain answers surrounding unnatural deaths while also assisting state authorities in identifying systemic risks and public safety issues.
Previously, responsibilities under the Coroners Act were shared among magistrates because there was no dedicated coroner’s office in Saint Lucia.
The appointment follows Cabinet approval granted in January 2025 for the creation of both the Coroners Court and the post of coroner.
Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, who also serves as minister for justice, referenced the initiative during his 2026-2027 Budget Address as part of broader efforts to strengthen the country’s justice system.
“In addition, we are investing in the establishment of a Coroner’s Court, strengthening our ability to conduct timely and thorough investigations, and enhancing public confidence in the administration of justice,” Pierre said during the presentation.
The government said additional appointments will also be made to support the court’s operations, including administrative staff and a specially appointed investigator responsible for conducting inquiries into unnatural deaths.
Officials described the creation of the court as a major advancement for Saint Lucia’s judicial system and said it positions the country as a regional leader in judicial modernization and institutional accountability.
Further details regarding the court’s procedures and the commencement of sittings are expected to be announced at a later date.
