A Coroner is responsible for investigating the circumstances surrounding any death which occurs under sudden or unusual circumstances. If the Coroner is not satisfied with any medical notes that were made prior to a person passing away, they may request that a pathologist performs a post-mortem examination of the deceased (an autopsy) in order to look for signs of disease or injury that may account for the death. The post-mortem examination will take place at either Manchester Royal Infirmary, Royal Oldham Hospital or Salford Royal Hospital depending on where the death occurred.

Additionally, a coroner may decide to hold a formal enquiry into the individual case, called an inquest. The inquest will look at the facts surrounding the person’s death and come to a conclusion. If the Coroner is involved with your case you will be given a name of direct contact to get in touch with someone within the Coroner’s Office to answer any questions you may have.