Overview
From 9th September 2024, an independent Medical Examiner will scrutinise all deaths that occur in England and Wales. Their role is to liaise with the family about the cause of death. Also, where necessary, engage with the coroner if the doctor has not already done so.
The Medical Examiner will advise you when their paperwork has been sent to the Register Office. You can then make an appointment to complete the registration.
A death should be registered within 5 days of the register office receiving the paperwork from the Medical Examiner.
In some cases, a death will be referred to the Coroner for them to investigate. When this is completed, they will contact you and also notify the registrar, in writing, for the registration to proceed.
If an inquest is held the Coroner will inform the registrar once the inquest is over. The death will be registered without you needing an appointment. You will just need to order any copies of the death certificate that you require.