When someone dies in England & Wales, in most cases things proceed without complication: a doctor issues a certificate and the family can register the death. But in around one-third of cases, deaths need to be reported to a coroner. There is a different system in Scotland where the role is undertaken by the procurator fiscal.

What the coroner does

A coroner is an independent official. Their role is to investigate deaths that meet certain criteria. They determine who died, when, where and how.

When a death must be reported

According to government guidance, a death must be reported to a coroner if:

• the cause of death is unknown;
• the person died a violent or unnatural death;
• the person may have died in custody or state detention (prison, police custody).

Even if none of these apply, a death may still be referred if the doctor or registrar does not feel comfortable issuing the certificate.

What happens next

Once the death is reported, the coroner will decide one of three paths:

1. The cause of death is clear. In that case the coroner issues a certificate to the registrar and no further action (like a post-mortem or inquest) is needed.
2. A post-mortem is needed to determine how the person died. The coroner arranges it in a hospital or mortuary. You cannot legally object, but if you have asked the coroner must tell you when and where it will happen. After the post-mortem, if no inquest is required the body is released for funeral arrangements and the coroner sends the required forms to the registrar (for example form 100B known as the “pink form” or Cremation 6).
3. The coroner must hold an inquest. That happens if:
   • the cause of death remains unknown;
   • or the death was violent or unnatural;
   • or the person died in prison or police custody.
      

During the inquest a hearing may be held, evidence collected, and a conclusion reached with lots of formal categories including  “natural causes”, “accident or misadventure”, “open conclusion”, etc

The funeral and registration timeline

If the coroner releases the body (after post-mortem) and issues the certificate, the death registration can go ahead and funeral arrangements progress. If an inquest is required, the final death certificate is issued only after the inquest. Meanwhile you can ask the coroner for an interim death certificate to proceed with necessary matters.
This means sometimes funerals may need to wait a little longer, or proceed under limited conditions while formalities are completed.

How The Farewell Guide supports you

If you are arranging a funeral for a loved one, The Farewell Guide helps you find trusted funeral directors near you. The right director understands coroner involvement, registration requirements and can guide you through what you need to do next.

What to keep in mind

• Reporting to a coroner does not always mean the service is delayed indefinitely. The body will usually be released once initial checks or post-mortem are done – speak to the office carrying this out to find out what the position is.
• An inquest is not about finding criminal guilt. It is an official fact-finding process.
• Even if you have recorded your wishes, unexpected circumstances might mean minor changes are needed. Flexibility helps.
• Clear communication with the funeral director and understanding of the coroner’s process makes things easier for all involved.

In summary

When a death is reported to a coroner it is to ensure every death is properly looked at when the cause is unclear, unnatural or in state control. The process can feel unfamiliar but knowing what the coroner may do helps.

Please note that nothing on The Farewell Guide should be taken as legal or financial advice; you should always seek professional guidance tailored to your own circumstances.