You need to be an assistant coroner before you can apply for the position of coroner.

To apply for an assistant coroner job, you need at least 5 years of experience as either a:

• qualified barrister or solicitor
• Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executive 

Vacancies

Local councils advertise vacancies for assistant coroners and coroners.

They choose coroners with the consent of the Chief Coroner and the Lord Chancellor.

You'll need:

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• excellent written communication skills
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

As a coroner, you could:

• hold an inquest into a death if you think one is needed
• collect evidence, witness statements and details about a death
• order a post-mortem exam if you have questions about the cause of death
• work out the cause of death by analysing all the facts
• notify the registrar about the death and results of any inquest
• write reports and make recommendations to prevent future deaths

You could work in an office, in a court or in an NHS or private hospital.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.