Practical Necessities

You will have an opportunity to ask further questions if you wish to do so. You will also be asked if you have any concerns regarding the care provided prior to the patient’s death.

Although he or she may not be able to answer your questions immediately, the ME will assist in seeking answers as appropriate and advise you about sources of additional support available.

Practical Necessities

You should find out if your relative or friend made a Will. Consult the solicitors who hold it to see what your relative or friend’s wishes were as to the funeral. The Will should also disclose the names of the executors or the persons legally entitled to deal with the deceased’s estate and any questions relating to taxation that may arise.

You may contact any Funeral Director of your choice. You don’t have to wait until the Medical Certificate is issued. In some cases it may not be possible for the hospital doctor to issue a Medical Certificate showing the cause of death (e.g. if the death is referred to the Coroner). In these circumstances notify your Funeral Director and follow his advice. Providing there is no Coroner’s involvement, you will have a telephone call from the Bereavement Office as soon as the death certificate has been completed by the appropriate doctor and checked by the Medical Examiner.