How to find out what is happening
The Coroner has a legal responsibility to investigate the death. This means that until the body is released for the funeral, the Coroner is in control of the body. As a result, the family may feel isolated and the uncertainty can be hard to cope with. However, the Coroner's staff are available to assist with any concerns you may have.
Every death is different and the investigation may take some time. The information on this website is designed to answer many of your questions. If you have further queries, feel free to contact the Coroner's office.
In an emergency you can ring the Coronial Investigation Squad (24 hours) if the death occurred in the metropolitan area.
A funeral director may provide the Court details of a family member as the 'next of kin'. The court will register this person as a contact person if they meet the criteria in section 37(5) of the Coroners Act 1996 (WA). Parties who are authorised by the Court to receive information may ring the Coroner's office to find out what is happening.
Last updated: 2 December 2024