When Deaths Go to the Coroner
When does a death go to the coroner?
Deaths go to the coroner when the cause is unknown, the death was violent, unnatural, sudden, unexplained, in custody, during surgery, or from industrial disease. The body is usually released within 3-5 days after post-mortem. Most cases (90%) conclude without an inquest.
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What Happens During a Coroner Investigation
1. Initial Investigation
The coroner's officer will contact you to explain the process and gather information about the deceased's medical history and circumstances of death.
2. Post-Mortem Examination
May be required to determine cause of death. You'll be informed if this is necessary. Most are completed within 2-3 working days.
3. Release of Body
Usually released within 3-5 days, allowing funeral arrangements to proceed. The coroner will issue necessary paperwork.
4. Inquest (if required)
Held for about 10% of coroner cases. A public hearing to establish facts about how someone died. Family can attend and ask questions.
Timescales
Simple Cases
2-4 weeks for completion. Body released within days.
Complex Cases
3-6 months if inquest required. Interim death certificate available.
Your Rights
- To be told if a post-mortem is needed
- To be represented at the inquest by a lawyer
- To see post-mortem and toxicology reports
- To object to organ/tissue retention
- To request a second post-mortem
Documents from the Coroner
Interim Death Certificate
Allows you to notify banks, employers, and deal with the estate while investigation continues.
Coroner's Certificate for Cremation
Form 6 - replaces the usual forms from doctors.
Final Death Certificate
Issued after investigation complete. Register death within 5 days of receiving this.
Important Points
- • Coroner services are free - you never have to pay
- • You can arrange the funeral once the body is released
- • The coroner's officer is your main point of contact
- • Legal aid may be available for inquest representation
- • You can request copies of all reports and documents
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would a death be referred to the coroner?
About 45% of deaths in England and Wales are referred to the coroner. A death must be referred if the cause is unknown, the death was violent or unnatural, sudden and unexplained, occurred in custody, may be due to an accident or suicide, or occurred during surgery or before recovery from anaesthetic.
How long does a coroner investigation take?
Simple coroner cases typically take 2-4 weeks for completion, with the body usually released within days. Complex cases requiring an inquest can take 3-6 months. An interim death certificate is available whilst the investigation continues, allowing you to deal with the estate.
Can I arrange the funeral whilst the coroner investigates?
Yes, you can arrange the funeral once the coroner releases the body, which usually happens within 3-5 days. The coroner will issue the necessary paperwork allowing the funeral to proceed. You don't need to wait for the investigation or inquest to complete before holding the funeral.
Do I have to pay for a coroner's investigation?
No, coroner services are completely free. You never have to pay for the investigation, post-mortem examination, or inquest. The coroner's officer will guide you through the process and answer your questions at no cost.
What is a post-mortem and can I refuse it?
A post-mortem is an examination to determine the cause of death, usually completed within 2-3 working days. You cannot refuse a coroner-ordered post-mortem. However, you can request a second post-mortem if you disagree with findings, and you have the right to object to organ or tissue retention.
Will there definitely be an inquest?
No, only about 10% of coroner cases require an inquest. Most deaths are resolved after a post-mortem examination. An inquest is a public hearing held when the cause of death cannot be established by post-mortem alone, or when the death occurred in certain circumstances like custody or workplace accidents.
Related Guides
Understanding Post-Mortem Examinations
Types of post-mortems, when they're required, what happens during the procedure, religious considerations, and timeline implications.
What Happens at an Inquest
Complete guide to coroner's inquests, who attends, the hearing process, giving evidence, and possible outcomes.
Your Rights During Coroner Investigation
Legal rights as an interested person, accessing reports, legal representation, and how to raise concerns during the investigation.
Understanding Coroner's Verdicts
All possible coroner conclusions explained, from natural causes to unlawful killing, and what each verdict means for the family.
Challenging Coroner Decisions
How to challenge a coroner's verdict or decision, judicial review process, new inquest applications, and when to seek legal advice.