Richard Booth KC, instructed on a pro bono basis by Debra King of Harding Evans, who also acts pro bono, represented Steve and Jane James, the parents of Bethan James Deceased, at the inquest into Bethan’s death.
Bethan died at the University Hospital of Wales as a result of sepsis on 8th February 2020 at the age of 21. She had attended hospital on 5 separate occasions in the two weeks before her death.
There were 3 refusals by the South Wales Central Coroners to hold an inquest into Bethan’s death. Paula Kelly, acting pro bono, drafted a judicial review letter of claim which resulted in the Coroner agreeing to hold an inquest.
The inquest took place from 3-5 June 2025, with 3 full days of evidence. HM Area Coroner Mrs Patricia Morgan gave her conclusions on 17 June 2025, finding that there were avoidable delays on 8th February 2020 which contributed to Bethan’s death, and that, with appropriate treatment, Bethan would not have died.
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