Coroner

There are occasions when it’s necessary for HM Coroner to investigate a sudden or unexplained death. The investigating office and their officers work in the public interest and will keep you informed of their progress throughout.

When Is a Coroner’s Investigation Required?

Deaths must be reported to the coroner when:

  • The deceased has not been seen by a doctor during their last illness
  • The death was sudden or unexpected
  • The death was violent or unnatural
  • The cause of death is unknown or uncertain
  • The death occurred during surgery or before recovery from anaesthetic
  • The death may have been caused by an industrial disease or related to the person’s employment
  • The death occurred in prison, police custody, or other state detention

Your doctor, hospital, or the police will report the death to the appropriate office if any of these circumstances apply.

What Happens During a Coroner’s Investigation?

Initial Steps

Once notified, the investigating office will:

  1. Gather information about the circumstances of the death
  2. Order a post-mortem examination if necessary to establish the cause of death
  3. Speak with relevant parties including doctors, witnesses, and family members
  4. Decide whether an inquest is needed

Post-Mortem Examination

A post-mortem is a medical examination carried out by a pathologist to determine the cause of death. Not all cases require a post-mortem, but when one is necessary:

  • It will usually take place within a few days
  • You cannot prevent a post-mortem ordered by the investigating office
  • The examination is carried out with respect and care
  • You may be able to view your loved one afterwards (we can advise on this)

Can You Still Arrange the Funeral?

We cannot set a firm date for the funeral until the investigation is complete, however, we can discuss all other aspects of the service while this is in progress. There is no need to wait for certificates before making preliminary arrangements with us.

We will:

  • Liaise with the investigating officers on your behalf
  • Keep you informed of progress
  • Ensure ample time is allowed for enquiries to be completed
  • Coordinate the funeral once clearance is given

The funeral may need to be delayed until the investigation is complete, but we’ll give you realistic timelines and support throughout.

Death Without an Inquest

If the post-mortem examination establishes the cause of death and no inquest is needed:

For Burial:

  • A certificate will be sent to the Registrar
  • This takes the place of the normal Medical Certificate of Cause of Death
  • You must register the death before the funeral can take place
  • We can then proceed with burial arrangements

For Cremation:

  • The investigating office will notify the Registrar and issue a Certificate (Form 6)
  • We will pass this certificate to the crematorium
  • Registration must take place within 14 days of death (but not necessarily before the funeral)
  • The funeral can proceed once we have the necessary documentation

Death With an Inquest

An inquest is a legal inquiry into the circumstances of a death. If an inquest is required:

The Inquest Process

  • The inquest will be held in public (sometimes with a jury)
  • Family members may attend and can ask questions
  • Legal representation is possible (legal aid may be available)
  • The purpose is to establish who died, when, where, and how

After the Inquest

Following the inquest:

  • A certificate for either burial or cremation will be issued
  • You can obtain copies of the death certificate from the Registrar’s office a few days after the inquest
  • If there is an adjournment, certificates will not be available until the case is finalized
  • The funeral can then proceed

Certificate of the Fact of Death

If you need to deal with the deceased’s estate before the inquest concludes, the Registrar can issue an interim certificate (Certificate of the Fact of Death). This allows you to:

  • Inform banks and financial institutions
  • Begin probate proceedings
  • Handle urgent estate matters

How Long Does the Process Take?

The timeline varies significantly depending on the circumstances:

  • Simple cases with post-mortem only: Usually 1-2 weeks
  • Cases requiring inquest: Can take several weeks or months
  • Complex inquests: May take longer, especially if there are adjournments

We will keep in regular contact with the investigating office and keep you informed of expected timelines.

What About Viewing?

When a death is under investigation, your loved one will usually be transferred to the hospital mortuary fairly quickly.

If you wish to view them during this time, this would need to be arranged with the hospital staff rather than with us. We can provide guidance on how to arrange this if needed.

Your Rights and Support

Information and Updates

You have the right to:

  • Be kept informed of the progress of the investigation
  • Understand why an inquest is being held
  • Attend the inquest and ask questions
  • Receive copies of the final documentation

Support Services

The investigation process can be distressing. Support is available from:

We’re Here to Help

We understand this process can feel overwhelming. We’re experienced in working with investigating offices and will handle all the coordination on your behalf.

If you have questions or concerns at any stage, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Contact us →

Related Information

Medical Examiner Process →
Learn about the standard death certification process for non-coronial deaths.

Registration Information →
Understand the death registration process and requirements.

Immediate Steps After a Death →
Guidance on what to do when someone dies in different circumstances.

Further Information

For more detailed information about the role and responsibilities of coroners:

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