Coroners Act 1988

1988 CHAPTER 13 _cross-notes _I1

An Act to consolidate the Coroners Acts 1887 to 1980 and certain related enactments, with amendments to give effect to recommendations of the Law Commission.

[10th May 1988]

^F1 Be it enacted by the Queen’s most Excellent Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and Commons, in this present Parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows:—

Coroners

^F2 1 Appointment of coroners.

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^F3 2 Qualifications for appointment as coroner.

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^F4 3 Terms on which coroners hold office.

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^F5 4 Coroners’ districts.

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4A ^F6[^F7 Coroner areas ^F7] : Wales. _cross-notes

^F8 (1)-(7) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(8) [^F9 A senior coroner ^F9] appointed for any [^F10 coroner area ^F10] in Wales—

(a) shall for all purposes be regarded as a [^F11 senior coroner ^F11] for the whole of Wales; and

(b) shall have the same jurisdiction, rights, powers and authorities throughout Wales as if he had been appointed as [^F12 a senior coroner ^F12] for the whole of Wales.

^F8 (9)-(10) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

^F13 5 Jurisdiction of coroners.

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Deputy coroners

^F14 6 Appointment of deputy coroners.

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^F15 7 Functions of deputy coroners.

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Inquests: general

^F16 8 Duty to hold inquest.

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^F17 9 Qualifications of jurors.

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^F18 10 Attendance of jurors and witnesses.

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^F19 11 Proceedings at inquest.

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^F20 12 Failure of jury to agree.

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Inquests: special cases

13 Order to hold [^F21 investigation ^F21] .

(1) This section applies where, on an application by or under the authority of the Attorney-General, the High Court is satisfied as respects a coroner (“the coroner concerned”) either—

(a) that he refuses or neglects to hold an inquest [^F22 or an investigation ^F22] which ought to be held; or

(b) where an inquest [^F23 or an investigation ^F23] has been held by him, that (whether by reason of fraud, rejection of evidence, irregularity of proceedings, insufficiency of inquiry, the discovery of new facts or evidence or otherwise) it is necessary or desirable in the interests of justice that [^F24 an investigation (or as the case may by, another investigation) ^F24] should be held.

(2) The High Court may—

(a) order an [^F25 investigation under Part 1 of the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 ^F25] to be held into the death either—

(i) by the coroner concerned; or

(ii) by [^F26 a senior coroner, area coroner or assistant coroner in the same coroner area ^F26] ;

(b) order the coroner concerned to pay such costs of and incidental to the application as to the court may appear just; and

(c) where an inquest has been held, quash [^F27 any inquisition on, or determination or finding made at ^F27] that inquest.

^F28 (3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

[^F29 (4) For the purposes of this section, “coroner” means a coroner appointed under section 1 of this Act , or a senior coroner, area coroner or assistant coroner appointed under the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 . ^F29]

[^F30 (5) This section does not apply in relation to a death that resulted directly from the Troubles (which has the same meaning as in Schedule 1A to the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 — see paragraph 4 of that Schedule). ^F30]

^F31 14 Inquest out of jurisdiction.

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^F32 15 Inquest where body destroyed or irrecoverable.

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^F34 16 Adjournment of inquest in [^F33 event of criminal proceedings ^F33] .

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^F35 17 Provisions supplementary to section 16.

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^F37[^F36 17A ^F36] Adjournment of inquest in event of judicial inquiry.

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^F38 18 Inquests into road deaths in London.

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Medical witnesses and post-mortem examinations etc.

^F39 19 Post-mortem examination without inquest.

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^F40 20 Request to specially qualified person to make post-mortem and special examinations.

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^F41 21 Summoning of medical witnesses and direction of post-mortem examinations.

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^F42 22 Removal of body for post mortem examination.

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^F43 23 Exhumation of body for examination.

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Expenses and returns of inquests

^F44 24 Fees and allowances payable on holding inquest.

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^F45 25 Payments to jurors.

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^F46 26 Payment of expenses by coroner.

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^F47 27 Accounts to be laid before relevant council.

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^F49[^F48 27A ^F48] Indemnity.

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^F50 28 Annual returns to be made to Secretary of State.

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Miscellaneous

^F51 29 Coroner of the Queen’s household.

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^F52 30 Treasure trove.

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^F53 31 Provision of accommodation.

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Supplemental

^F54 32 Power to make rules.

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^F55 33 Savings for ex-officio coroners and judicial powers.

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^F56 34 Application of Act to Isles of Scilly.

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^F57 35 Interpretation.

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^F58 36 Consequential amendments, repeals, transitional provisions and savings.

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^F59 37 Short title, commencement and extent.

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SCHEDULES

Section 3(1).

SCHEDULE 1 SALARIES AND PENSIONS

^F60 ...

^F60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Section 29(7).

SCHEDULE 2 CORONER OF THE QUEEN’S HOUSEHOLD

^F61 ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

^F61^,^F61 ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Section 36(1).

SCHEDULE 3 CONSEQUENTIAL AMENDMENTS

^F62 ...

^F62 ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Section 36(2).

SCHEDULE 4 REPEALS

^F63 ...	...	...

in force	Provision is in force
in force*	In force only for specified purposes (see footnote)
not in force	Not in force in England (may be in force in other geographies, see footnotes)
defined term	Defined term
_dfn	Defined term (alternative style)

in force

Provision is in force

in force*

In force only for specified purposes (see footnote)

not in force

Not in force in England (may be in force in other geographies, see footnotes)

defined term

Defined term

_dfn

Defined term (alternative style)

footnote	commentary	related provisions	insert/omit
C1	Act amended (24.9.1997) by 1996 c. 24 , s. 7(3) ; S.I. 1997/1977 , art. 2
C2	Act restricted ( temp. from 19.7.1996 to 31.3.1998) by S.I. 1996/1867 , art. 4(2)(d)
C3	By Criminal Justice Act 1991 (c.53, SIF 39:1) , s. 101(1) , Sch. 12 para. 23 ; S.I. 1991/2208 , art. 2(1) , Sch. 1 it is provided (14.10.1991) that in relation to any time before the commencement of s.70 of that 1991 Act (which came into force on 1.10.1992 by S.I. 1992/333 , art. 2(2) , Sch. 2 ) references in any enactment amended by that 1991 Act, to youth courts shall be construed as references to juvenile courts.
C4	S.4A restricted (3.4.1995) by 1994 c. 19 , s. 66(7) , Sch. 17 Pt. II para. 23(5) (with ss. 54(5)(7) , 55(5) , Sch. 17 paras. 22(1) , 23(2) ); S.I. 1995/852 , art. 9(1) , Sch. 5
F1	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F2	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F3	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F4	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F5	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F6	S.4A inserted (3.4.1995 in respect of the insertion of s. 4A(1)(2)(7)(9)(10) and 1.4.1996 otherwise) by 1994 c. 19 , s. 66(6) , Sch. 16 para. 82(5) (with ss. 54(5)(7) , 55(5) , Sch. 17 paras. 22(1) , 23(2) ); S.I. 1995/852 , art. 9(1) , Sch. 5 ; S.I. 1996/396 , art. 4 , Sch. 2	this amendment (text inserted) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	inserted
F7	Words in s. 4A heading substituted (25.7.2013) by The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/1874) , arts. 1(1) , 2(2)		substituted
F8	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F9	Words in s. 4A(8) substituted (25.7.2013) by The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/1874) , arts. 1(1) , 2(3)(a)		substituted
F10	Words in s. 4A(8) substituted (25.7.2013) by The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/1874) , arts. 1(1) , 2(3)(b)		substituted
F11	Words in s. 4A(8)(a) substituted (25.7.2013) by The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/1874) , arts. 1(1) , 2(3)(c)		substituted
F12	Words in s. 4A(8)(b) substituted (25.7.2013) by The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/1874) , arts. 1(1) , 2(3)(d)		substituted
F13	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F14	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F15	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F16	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F17	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F18	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F19	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F20	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F21	Word in s. 13 heading substituted (25.7.2013) by The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/1874) , arts. 1(1) , 2(4)		substituted
F22	Words in s. 13(1)(a) inserted (25.7.2013) by The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/1874) , arts. 1(1) , 2(5)(a)		inserted
F23	Words in s. 13(1)(b) inserted (25.7.2013) by The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/1874) , arts. 1(1) , 2(5)(b)(i)		inserted
F24	Words in s. 13(1)(b) substituted (25.7.2013) by The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/1874) , arts. 1(1) , 2(5)(b)(ii)		substituted
F25	Words in s. 13(2)(a) substituted (25.7.2013) by The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/1874) , arts. 1(1) , 2(5)(c)		substituted
F26	Words in s. 13(2)(a)(ii) substituted (25.7.2013) by The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/1874) , arts. 1(1) , 2(5)(d)		substituted
F27	Words in s. 13(2)(c) substituted (25.7.2013) by The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/1874) , arts. 1(1) , 2(5)(e)		substituted
F28	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F29	S. 13(4) inserted (25.7.2013) by The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (Consequential Provisions) Order 2013 (S.I. 2013/1874) , arts. 1(1) , 2(5)(f)		inserted
F30	S. 13(5) inserted (1.5.2024) by Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (c. 41) , s. 63(3) , Sch. 11 para. 2(1) (with s. 61 , Sch. 11 para. 2(2) )	this amendment (text inserted) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	inserted
F31	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F32	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F33	S. 16: words in side note substituted (1.1.2000) by 1999 c. 22 , s. 71(3) (with s. 107 , Sch. 14 para. 7(2) ); S.I. 1999/3344 , art. 2(b)	this amendment (text substituted) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	substituted
F34	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F35	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F36	S. 17A inserted (1.1.2000) by S.I. 1999 c. 22 , s. 71(1) (with s. 107 , Sch. 14 para. 7(2) ); S.I. 1999/3344 , art. 2(b)	this amendment (text inserted) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	inserted
F37	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F38	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F39	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F40	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F41	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F42	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F43	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F44	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F45	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F46	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F47	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F48	S. 27A inserted (27.9.1999) by 1999 c. 22 , ss. 104 , 108(3)(d) (with s. 107 , Sch. 14 para. 2 )	this amendment (text inserted) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	inserted
F49	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F50	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F51	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F52	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i), Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180, Sch. 22 Pt. 1); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3)	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F53	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F54	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F55	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F56	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F57	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F58	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F59	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F60	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F61	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F61	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F61	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F61	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F61	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F62	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
F63	Act repealed (12.2.2013 for the repeal of s. 5(2), 25.7.2013 except for the repeal of ss. 4A(8), 13(1)(2)) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) , s. 182(4)(g)(i) , Sch. 23 Pt. 1 (with s. 180 , Sch. 22 Pt. 1 ); S.I. 2013/250 , art. 2 ; S.I. 2013/1869 , art. 2(p) (with art. 3 )	this amendment (text repealed) should be read in conjunction with other related provisions, see the commentary.	repealed
I1	Act wholly in force at 10.7.1988 see s. 37(2)

Defined Term	Section/Article	ID	Scope of Application
coroner	s. 13	def_224ef76d32
the coroner concerned	s. 13	def_c68622baab

Defined Term

Section/Article

Scope of Application

coroner

s. 13

def_224ef76d32

the coroner concerned

s. 13

def_c68622baab

Coroners Act 1988

1988 CHAPTER 13 cross-notes I1

Coroners

F2 1 Appointment of coroners.

F3 2 Qualifications for appointment as coroner.

F4 3 Terms on which coroners hold office.

F5 4 Coroners’ districts.

4A F6[F7 Coroner areas F7] : Wales. cross-notes

F13 5 Jurisdiction of coroners.

Deputy coroners

F14 6 Appointment of deputy coroners.

F15 7 Functions of deputy coroners.

Inquests: general

F16 8 Duty to hold inquest.

F17 9 Qualifications of jurors.

F18 10 Attendance of jurors and witnesses.

F19 11 Proceedings at inquest.

F20 12 Failure of jury to agree.

Inquests: special cases

13 Order to hold [F21 investigation F21] .

F31 14 Inquest out of jurisdiction.

F32 15 Inquest where body destroyed or irrecoverable.

F34 16 Adjournment of inquest in [F33 event of criminal proceedings F33] .

F35 17 Provisions supplementary to section 16.

F37[F36 17A F36] Adjournment of inquest in event of judicial inquiry.

F38 18 Inquests into road deaths in London.

Medical witnesses and post-mortem examinations etc.

F39 19 Post-mortem examination without inquest.

F40 20 Request to specially qualified person to make post-mortem and special examinations.

F41 21 Summoning of medical witnesses and direction of post-mortem examinations.

F42 22 Removal of body for post mortem examination.

F43 23 Exhumation of body for examination.

Expenses and returns of inquests

F44 24 Fees and allowances payable on holding inquest.

F45 25 Payments to jurors.

F46 26 Payment of expenses by coroner.

F47 27 Accounts to be laid before relevant council.

F49[F48 27A F48] Indemnity.

F50 28 Annual returns to be made to Secretary of State.

Miscellaneous

F51 29 Coroner of the Queen’s household.

F52 30 Treasure trove.

F53 31 Provision of accommodation.

Supplemental

F54 32 Power to make rules.

F55 33 Savings for ex-officio coroners and judicial powers.

F56 34 Application of Act to Isles of Scilly.

F57 35 Interpretation.

F58 36 Consequential amendments, repeals, transitional provisions and savings.

F59 37 Short title, commencement and extent.

SCHEDULES

SCHEDULE 1 SALARIES AND PENSIONS

F60 ...

SCHEDULE 2 CORONER OF THE QUEEN’S HOUSEHOLD

SCHEDULE 3 CONSEQUENTIAL AMENDMENTS

F62 ...

SCHEDULE 4 REPEALS

Status of changes to instrument text

1988 CHAPTER 13 _cross-notes _I1

^F2 1 Appointment of coroners.

^F3 2 Qualifications for appointment as coroner.

^F4 3 Terms on which coroners hold office.

^F5 4 Coroners’ districts.

4A ^F6[^F7 Coroner areas ^F7] : Wales. _cross-notes

^F13 5 Jurisdiction of coroners.

^F14 6 Appointment of deputy coroners.

^F15 7 Functions of deputy coroners.

^F16 8 Duty to hold inquest.

^F17 9 Qualifications of jurors.

^F18 10 Attendance of jurors and witnesses.

^F19 11 Proceedings at inquest.

^F20 12 Failure of jury to agree.

13 Order to hold [^F21 investigation ^F21] .

^F31 14 Inquest out of jurisdiction.

^F32 15 Inquest where body destroyed or irrecoverable.

^F34 16 Adjournment of inquest in [^F33 event of criminal proceedings ^F33] .

^F35 17 Provisions supplementary to section 16.

^F37[^F36 17A ^F36] Adjournment of inquest in event of judicial inquiry.

^F38 18 Inquests into road deaths in London.

^F39 19 Post-mortem examination without inquest.

^F40 20 Request to specially qualified person to make post-mortem and special examinations.

^F41 21 Summoning of medical witnesses and direction of post-mortem examinations.

^F42 22 Removal of body for post mortem examination.

^F43 23 Exhumation of body for examination.

^F44 24 Fees and allowances payable on holding inquest.

^F45 25 Payments to jurors.

^F46 26 Payment of expenses by coroner.

^F47 27 Accounts to be laid before relevant council.

^F49[^F48 27A ^F48] Indemnity.

^F50 28 Annual returns to be made to Secretary of State.

^F51 29 Coroner of the Queen’s household.

^F52 30 Treasure trove.

^F53 31 Provision of accommodation.

^F54 32 Power to make rules.

^F55 33 Savings for ex-officio coroners and judicial powers.

^F56 34 Application of Act to Isles of Scilly.

^F57 35 Interpretation.

^F58 36 Consequential amendments, repeals, transitional provisions and savings.

^F59 37 Short title, commencement and extent.

^F60 ...

^F62 ...