The Elizabeth Fry Society is getting a second chance to argue for standing at the inquest into the death of Kinew James.

The 35-year-old died in 2013 at the Regional Psychiatric Centre.

James was from Winnipeg and nearing the end of a 15-year-sentence. She had been transferred to Saskatoon from the Grand Valley Institution for Women in Ontario after speaking out about guards who she said were smuggling in goods in exchange for sexual favours.

James, a diabetic, died of an apparent heart attack.

The Elizabeth Fry Society, a group that speaks for women in prison had applied for the right to speak at her inquest, but was initially denied by coroner Timothy Hawryluk.

In a letter, the coroner wrote: "I have concluded that your clients do not have a substantial interest in this inquest.… It is difficult to identify any circumstances where the jury in this stance would have any recommendations directed to either the Canadian Association of Elizabeth Fry Societies or EFRY Saskatchewan."

The society appealed that ruling to Court of Queen's Bench. The justice who heard arguments ruled recently that Elizabeth Fry should get another chance.

The society originally argued that it had direct involvement with Kinew James; it has substantial interest because of its importance to the rights of women in prison; and, it has established expertise in the issues it expects will be raised in the inquest.

The inquest is set for later this month.