Deaths reported to the Coroner
It is the duty of the coroner to investigate deaths which are reported to them.
In the vast majority of cases no further investigation is necessary and the registration can be completed straightaway
The coroner will investigate a death which:
- Appears to be due to violence
- Appears to be unnatural or suspicious
- Is sudden and of unknown cause
- Occurs in legal custody
Coroners investigate sudden or unexplained death by organising post mortems and holding inquests.
What to do after someone dies: When a death is reported to a coroner (GOV.UK)
Post mortems
When a post mortem is completed, the coroner will be sent a report on the causes of death that were found.
The coroner will then review the information:
If the death is due to natural causes, the coroner will issue paperwork to the registrar so the death can be registered. No further action will be taken.
If the post mortem shows an unnatural cause of death, or if the cause of death is still not known they will hold an inquest
Inquests
Inquests are held in public (sometimes with a jury) which relatives can attend.
If there is a delay between the death and the inquest the coroner may issue an interim death certificate. You can use this to tell organisations, such as banks or insurance companies, that the person has died.
Once an inquest has been held the coroner will write to the registrar to tell them the inquest has been completed. The death will be registered without anyone having to attend the Register Office. They will also write to the next of kin or executor to tell them the registrar has been notified of the death and how to apply for a death certificate.
There is a Guide to coroner services which is mainly for people who have been bereaved but others involved in or affected by an inquest may also find it helpful.
The County of Devon, Plymouth and Torbay Coroner Service
Plymouth, Torbay and South Devon Coroner Service merged with Devon Coroner Service on 1 April 2024. The new jurisdiction is known as the County of Devon, Plymouth & Torbay Coroner Service. Mr Philip Spinney is the Senior Coroner for the area.
There are courts in Exeter and Plymouth.
All administrative and financial functions are undertaken at County Hall, Exeter.
Contact the Coroner’s Service
Next of kin enquiries: 01752 487402
Monday to Thursday: 7.30am to 12.30pm, 1pm to 3.15pm.
Friday: 7.30am to 12.30pm, 1pm to 2.45pm
Out of office hours: Devon and Cornwall Constabulary on 101
Administration office: 01392 383636 (9am to 5pm)
Email: coroner@devon.gov.uk
Post:
Room G85
County Hall
Topsham Road
Exeter
Devon
EX2 4Q
Website: www.devoncoroners.org.uk