If the cause of death is established at the time of the post-mortem examination

If the results of the post-mortem examination show a natural cause of death immediately and there is no other reason to open an Inquest (such as the person having died in custody) the Coroner’s investigation will be discontinued and our involvement will cease at this point. 

We will call you to explain the cause of death and advise you to call the Registrars on 0191 5205553 to make an appointment to register the death and obtain the final death certificate.  You can also make an appointment online here.  Paperwork will be sent to the Registrars from the Coroner’s Officer to inform them of the cause of death. 

We will need to know which funeral director will be looking after the arrangements in order for the Coroner to provide a Mortuary Release form.  This permits the funeral director to collect your relative and take them into their care at their earliest opportunity. 

The Coroner will provide the appropriate paperwork to the funeral director to facilitate burial or cremation.