What is the role of a Coroner?

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, the Coroner is a specialist judge who is authorised to investigate certain kinds of deaths, for instance where the cause of death is unknown or is not clear. A Coroner gathers information about how someone died and about their medical and social background with the support of other professionals such as doctors and in some cases the police, as well as their family and friends. 

If the Coroner decides from the information they are given that someone has died by natural causes, they will issue a Coroner’s notification which means the death can be registered and a death certificate issued. A Coroner may decide, however, that a postmortem is required. The Coroner does not need the consent of the family to order a postmortem, however the family will be informed and supported throughout the process including being advised of any findings. 

In some cases, the Coroner may order an inquest which is an inquiry to find out how, when and where a person died. If a postmortem is ordered or the Coroner decides an inquest should be held, funeral arrangements cannot be finalised until the Coroner has authorised that the body of the person who has died can be released for burial or cremation. 

The government has produced a guide to Coroner services for bereaved people that you may find helpful. 

In Scotland, the role of The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal is broadly similar to that of the Coroner. You may find it helpful to view this short film which explains their role. 

What support is available?

The involvement of the Coroner can make it  it very hard to believe what has happened or to start to grieve. There may also be media attention, which can be particularly distressing and intrusive to the family.

Things that may help include knowing how to contact the professionals involved who can keep you informed, such as a Coroner’s Officer or Family Liaison Officer; having a friend or contact who may be able to help you keep in touch with agencies or liaise on your behalf; and being able to talk to someone – family and friends, or someone neutral such as a bereavement support professional on our Helpline. 

The Coroners' Court Support Service is an independent voluntary organisation whose trained volunteers offer emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending an Inquest at the Coroner's Court.