The main duty of a coroner is to enquire into sudden or unexplained deaths. This is usually in the form of a post-mortem examination. The examination is followed by an inquest if the cause of death is not natural.

When a person dies in certain circumstances, their death has to be investigated in a specific way. For example, the death of a person in custody or a death caused by a person's work. The duties and responsibilities of the coroner have to comply with the Coroners Act 1988.

We appoint coroners on a part-time basis. Their main responsibilities include:

• Holding inquests
• Arranging for post mortems to be carried out
• Employing any other services, such as Funeral Directors, as necessary

Coroners must have at least five years experience as one of the following:

• Barrister
• Solicitor
• Legally qualified Medical Practitioner

Coroner's officers assist the coroner. They can be civilians or police officers. They receive reports of deaths and make enquiries on the coroner's behalf.

More information about the work of the Coroner's Office can be found on the Department of Constitutional Affairs website.