When the Coroner decides that a post mortem has to be carried out, on request the immediate next of kin will be given an explanation as to why it is necessary wherever possible and what is involved.
Advance notice of the arrangements will also be notified, so that they may be represented by a doctor if they wish and a copy of the post mortem report can be supplied if required.
However, post mortem examinations must normally be undertaken as soon as possible after death, often within twenty-four hours and therefore notice may not always be practicable.
