After my relative’s sudden death, a coroner decided a post-mortem was required, but our family has cultural and religious concerns about the procedure. Can we object, and what rights do we have? I would appreciate some clarity on what the law actually requires here.
Under the Coroners Act 2006, the coroner has the power to decide whether a post-mortem is necessary to establish the cause of death, and in many cases it is compulsory. However, the Act requires the coroner to consider cultural and spiritual matters, and a family member can object to a post-mortem or ask for a less invasive approach, such as a CT scan. Objections must be made promptly to the coroner, and the coroner must consider the views of the family and whether the post-mortem is necessary. If the coroner still directs it, family members can apply to the High Court for a review of the decision within a short time, so seek urgent legal advice. Speak to the coroner's office, and ask about the approach and timing, and about the return of the body.
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