Sudden deaths
In certain circumstances, it is not legally possible for the doctor to certify the death. This may be that the deceased had not seen the doctor for some time or simply that the cause of death is not immediately apparent.
In these cases, the death gets referred to the Coroner, who will investigate the circumstances surrounding the death and may require that a Post Mortem examination is carried out.
In the vast majority of cases, where a Post Mortem Examination reveals is carried out, the Coroner decides that the death was due to natural causes and has no need for further involvement.
The next of kin is then advised by the Coroner that the death may then be registered in the normal way and the funeral may proceed.
On rare occasions, an Inquest may be necessary to investigate further the circumstances surrounding the death. In these cases, it may not be possible to register the death within the usual timescales. To assist the next of kin in dealing with the deceased’s affairs, there are special rules in force and we will help you deal with the formalities.
