Coroner's Statutory Powers — SCE Palliative Medicine MCQ

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ModerateLegal & Ethical FrameworkCoroner's Statutory PowersSCE Palliative Medicine

A 70-year-old woman with advanced cancer dies. The Medical Examiner is not satisfied with the proposed cause of death and refers the case to the Coroner. What powers does the Coroner have?

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Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — The Coroner can order a post‑mortem without family consent

Under UK law, coroners have independent statutory authority—they assume legal control of the body, can order post‑mortem examinations without next‑of‑kin consent, conduct inquests where indicated, and issue authority for disposal (burial or cremation). These powers are derived from the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 and reflected in current UK government guidance. Option C is incorrect because coroners do far more than issue certificates; Option B is wrong—family consent is not required for coronial post‑mortems; Option D is false—coroners investigate all sudden, unexplained, violent, or unnatural deaths, not just murders; Option E is incorrect—coroners have clear statutory powers, not merely advisory roles.

Reference: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/conditions-and-diseases/cancer/palliative-care