The Goudge Inquiry and Forensic Pathology in Canada

Abstract

Aims: This article analyses the effects of The Inquiry into Pediatric Forensic Pathology in Ontario, commonly known as the Goudge Inquiry, and its effects upon forensic pathology in Canada. Methods: The Goudge Inquiry was a Government of Ontario public inquiry that examined the delivery of pediatric forensic pathology services to the Ontario Coroner’s Office and the Canadian criminal justice system. The inquiry was conducted by Mr. Justice Goudge, a court of Appeal Judge and made substantial recommendations of improving forensic pathology in a Coroner system and its role in delivering evidence to the criminal justice system. This article reviews the inquiry and discusses the effect of the inquiry on the development of forensic pathology in Canada and academic literature about the inquiry. Results: The Inquiry has had important effects on the role of all expert witnesses in the courts and is the most substantial examination of forensic pathology by any judicial inquiry. Conclusions: The Goudge Inquiry has been considered a significant success, being described as transformative.