Post-mortem examinations
Why have a post-mortem?
A post-mortem is an examination of the body of a person who has died. It is sometimes referred to as an autopsy.
If the deceased’s own GP or the hospital doctor cannot give a medical cause of death then an examination must take place to determine the cause.
Can I object to a post-mortem?
The Coroner has a legal duty to ascertain the cause of death. If a doctor cannot satisfy the Coroner of this, then a post-mortem examination must take place as soon as is reasonably practicable. Although the Coroner will be mindful of any views held by the family it is for the Coroner alone to decide whether a post-mortem must take place and, if so, the most suitable practitioner and mortuary location.
Who organises and pays for the transport of the deceased to and from the post-mortem?
Following the Coroner's decision, the Coroner’s Service will organise the transportation of the deceased to the mortuary. It may, on occasion, be necessary to relocate the deceased to an alternative mortuary to facilitate the post mortem examination. The Coroner's Service will also arrange this.
You are not obliged to retain the services of the funeral director appointed by the Coroner to transport the body of the deceased and may appoint a funeral director of your choice to collect from the mortuary and organise the funeral. You may wish to clarify with the funeral directors as to whether costs may be incurred for the collection before instructing them.
Do I have to accept the result of a post-mortem?
No. You can ask the Coroner for a second post-mortem but this will be at your cost and you will need to make all the arrangements yourself.
Will a post-mortem delay the funeral?
Not usually. The Coroner and pathologist understand the family's wish to deal with matters promptly, particularly in cases where religious or cultural beliefs require a funeral to be held within a particular time period.
However there are some cases where a slight delay occurs. In such cases an explanation will be given to the family together with an estimate of how long the delay will be.
Can I have a copy of the post-mortem report?
You may request a copy of the post-mortem report from the Coroner's Office. You must be a 'properly interested person' (usually immediate family).
Please be aware that reports will be written in clinical language and may contain detailed and sensitive information that may be confusing or upsetting. It would be advisable to seek advice from a medical professional, to discuss it.
The Coroner’s Officer can only provide a limited explanation.
