Coroner

Coroners investigate deaths where the causes are unexplained or the person’s identity is unknown.

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

As a coroner, you could:

  • hold an inquest into a death if you think one is needed
  • collect evidence, witness statements and details about a death
  • order a post-mortem exam if you have questions about the cause of death
  • work out the cause of death by analysing all the facts
  • notify the registrar about the death and results of any inquest
  • write reports and make recommendations to prevent future deaths

Working environment

You could work in an office, in a court or in an NHS or private hospital.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.

Career path and progression

With experience, you can apply for the position of senior coroner. After that you could become a chief coroner which is the most senior position.

You can also apply to become a course director with the Judicial College.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • sensitivity and understanding
  • the ability to work well with others
  • the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
  • legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • excellent written communication skills
  • the ability to understand people’s reactions
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

How to become

You can get into this job by applying directly.

You need to be an assistant coroner before you can apply for the position of coroner.

To apply for an assistant coroner job, you need at least 5 years of experience as either a:

Vacancies

Local councils advertise vacancies for assistant coroners and coroners.

They choose coroners with the consent of the Chief Coroner and the Lord Chancellor.

Further information

You can find out more about becoming a coroner from the Courts and Tribunals Judiciary and the Crown Prosecution Service.

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