Sudden or unexplained death

Coroners are independent judicial officers appointed by the Royal Borough of Greenwich to investigate sudden or unexplained deaths. Investigation usually involves having a post-mortem examination made, followed by an inquest if the cause of death is not natural.

In addition, there are specific requirements to investigate deaths in certain circumstances. This includes:

• the death of a person in custody
• a death resulting from a person's occupation.

Who can be a coroner?

Coroners are required by law to be qualified as a barrister, solicitor or legally qualified medical practitioner of not less than five years standing.

The Inner South London Coroner's Service is operated as a consortium of four boroughs:

• Greenwich
• Lambeth
• Lewisham
• Southwark.