In this episode, recorded on 26 March 2025, we explore the complexities surrounding the Terminally Ill Adults End of Life Bill in England and Wales, commonly referred to as the Assisted Dying Bill. This proposed legislation raises fundamental questions about autonomy, medical ethics, and legal practicality.
Rob Tobin is joined by Dan Freeman, fellow partner at Kennedys in the medical law team, to discuss:
The legal principle of autonomy and how it shapes the debate on assisted dying.Key medical law cases that have influenced the shift away from paternalistic medicine, including Montgomery on consent, Tracey on DNACPR, and Cheshire West on deprivation of liberty.The potential challenges this legislation poses for healthcare professionals and the legal system.With assisted dying continuing to be a highly debated and sensitive issue, this episode provides insight into the practicalities, ethical dilemmas, and legal implications of this fast-moving topic.
In this podcast episode, references to Kennedys’ submission to the Bill Committee’s call for evidence on the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill are made in relation to Kennedys’ submission (dated 3 February 2025), which was prepared for the Bill Committee.
Sensitivity warning: This episode discusses end-of-life decisions, which some listeners may find distressing.