Some deaths need to be referred to the Coroner. This may happen if the death involved:

• an accident or trauma
• suspected self-harm
• an unknown cause of death
• other circumstances that need legal investigation

Most deaths do not require investigation by the Coroner. Even if the Coroner is informed, this does not always mean there is a problem or that a post-mortem examination will be needed.

If the Coroner does not need to investigate, the doctor will complete the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death, often called the MCCD, and send it with the relevant information to the Medical Examiner Service.

The Medical Examiner Service independently reviews deaths in Wales that are not investigated by the Coroner.

The service aims to:

• improve public safety
• make sure death certificates are accurate
• reduce unnecessary distress for grieving families

The Medical Examiner will:

• review the person’s medical records
• check whether there were any concerns about care
• speak with the next of kin or family to explain the cause of death and answer questions

If the family raises concerns, these may be passed on to the care provider or the Coroner for further investigation, if needed.

Once the Medical Examiner has completed their review and countersigned the certificate, it is sent electronically to the Registrar in the local authority area where the death occurred.

The Medical Examiner Service will also share the next of kin or family contact details with the Registrar, so they can arrange the registration appointment.

Once the Registrar receives the Medical Certificate of Cause of Death, an appointment can be booked to formally register the death.

The aim is usually to register the death within 5 days of the Registrar receiving the certificate. If more time is needed, you should tell the register office as soon as possible.

Funeral arrangements can usually begin before the death is registered. Families may contact a funeral director to discuss arrangements and visits to see their loved one, where this is possible.

After the death is registered, the Registrar will issue a certificate for burial or cremation. This is often called the green form. The funeral director, crematorium or burial authority will need this before the burial or cremation can take place.

Everyone involved will work to register the death as soon as possible and avoid delays wherever they can.

Delays can happen because of:

• access to medical records
• contact with family or next of kin
• seasonal demand
• further investigation by the Coroner

The goal is to complete the certification process within 9 days, although it may take longer in complex cases.

Coming to terms with a death can be very difficult. Everyone grieves differently, and some people may need extra support.

You can ask your GP practice, local health board, funeral director or local authority about bereavement support in your area.

The UK Government website also gives practical guidance on what to do after someone dies, including notifying authorities, managing benefits and pensions, and dealing with the person’s estate.