Welcome to Sunderland Coroner's Office

The law states that certain types of deaths must be reported to the Coroner and some cases may result in an investigation either with or without an Inquest.  HM Senior Coroner for the City of Sunderland deals with deaths when the body is within Sunderland including Washington and Houghton le Spring. 

This website contains information that will help you know what to expect if you come into contact with the Coroner’s Service if someone close to you has died or you are a witness in the fact finding process.

As well as a summary of the role of the Coroner and an overview of the Inquest process you will find a list of upcoming Inquests and signposts to external agencies for further information or support.

If you require further advice or information then please contact the office.

CORONAVIRUS: NOTICE FOR PRACTITIONERS

The easements introduced with the Coronavirus Act 2020 expired at midnight on 24th March 2022.  To access local guidance for practitioners re death certification and registration please​ click here.