What a coroner referral means, the post-mortem process, when an inquest is held, how to get an interim death certificate, and how it affects the funeral and probate.
This guide is part of ProbateHelp's First Steps guide cluster. Estimated reading time: 14 min.
Not at all. The vast majority of coroner referrals are routine — the death was simply unexpected, or the doctor could not certify the cause of death. Around half of all deaths in England and Wales are referred to a coroner, and the overwhelming majority are resolved without an inquest. A referral does not imply any wrongdoing.
You cannot legally prevent a coroner's post-mortem — it is a legal requirement when ordered. However, you can raise religious or cultural concerns with the Coroner's Officer, who will try to accommodate your wishes where possible. This might include prioritising the examination to minimise delay, or arranging for a religious representative to be present. Speak to the Coroner's Officer as soon as possible if this is a concern.
In most cases, the body is released within one to three weeks of the death — sometimes sooner. If a post-mortem is needed, the body is usually released once the examination is complete, even if an inquest is then opened. The Coroner's Officer will keep you informed and will try to release the body as quickly as possible.
Yes. You can use the interim death certificate to notify banks and other financial institutions. Most banks will freeze the account on notification of death but will allow access to funds needed for funeral expenses. Once you have the grant of probate (which you can apply for using the interim certificate), you can access the estate's assets.
Yes. You have the right to be legally represented at an inquest. This is particularly advisable if the death occurred in a care home or hospital, if there are concerns about the circumstances of the death, or if the inquest is likely to be complex. The Coroners' Courts Support Service can provide free support and help you find legal representation if needed.
A conclusion of 'accident' means the death resulted from an unintended act or event. A conclusion of 'unlawful killing' means the coroner or jury found that the death was caused by an unlawful act — but this is not a criminal conviction. The conclusion can be used as evidence in subsequent civil or criminal proceedings, but the inquest itself does not determine criminal liability.