HM Coroner's Office - West Yorkshire (Eastern Area) - Wakefield Council
When is a death reported to the coroner
Coroners investigate deaths that have been reported to them if they think any of the following conditions apply:
- the death was violent or unnatural
- the cause of death is unknown
- the person died in prison, police custody, or another type of state detention (for example, an immigration removal centre, or while detained under the Mental Health Act 1983)
If a death is reported to a coroner, the documents you need to register the death may be different from the usual doctor's medical certificate.
What the coroner will do
The coroner will consider whether:
- the cause of death is natural
- a post-mortem/CT examination is needed
- an investigation or inquest is needed
Medical examiners scrutinise deaths to ensure the cause of death is accurate, that cases are referred to the coroner appropriately, and to identify any clinical governance concerns. They do this by proportionate review of the patient record, and discussion with the attending doctor and next of kin.
HM Coroner, and their officers and administrative staff treat all bereaved relatives and other members of the public courteously and sympathetically at all times, and give respect to the deceased's religious faith and cultural traditions within the constraints of the statutory duties.
Further information
HM Coroner's Office for West Yorkshire (Eastern Area) covers the local authority areas of Leeds and Wakefield.
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