Confirming the cause of a death

Overview

From 9 September 2024, the Medical Examiner will examine all deaths and agree the cause of death, except those that need to be referred to a coroner.

Deaths that need to be referred to a coroner include:

  • unnatural deaths
  • those where the cause of death is unknown

For guidance when a death has been referred to a coroner, see .

As the next of kin, you will be able to discuss any concerns about the cause of death, and the care your relative received before their death, with the Medical Examiner Office.