Registering a death
When someone dies, the death must be registered before the final legal paperwork can be issued. Bay Tree Funerals can guide you through what to expect and who to contact.
Registering a death in Leicester or Leicestershire
In England and Wales, you must wait until the Medical Examiner’s office confirms that the death can be registered. Once you have been told you can register, the death should usually be registered within 5 days, unless the coroner is involved or the register office agrees otherwise.
The death normally needs to be registered in the district where the person died. If the death happened in Leicester, this is usually handled by Leicester City Council. If the death happened in Leicestershire, this is usually handled by Leicestershire County Council.
Step-by-step guidance
1 Wait for confirmation to register
The Medical Examiner’s office, hospital, GP surgery or coroner’s office will usually confirm when you are able to register the death. You should not try to register before you have been told the paperwork is ready.
2 Book with the correct register office
The death is normally registered in the district where the person died. Leicester City deaths are usually registered through Leicester City Council, while Leicestershire deaths are usually registered through Leicestershire County Council.
3 Call Bay Tree Funerals if you need help
If you are unsure what to do next, call us on 0116 278 8868. We can explain the registration process and help you understand what the funeral arrangements may need.
4 Attend the registration appointment
The registrar will ask for details about the person who has died and will complete the legal registration. Registration appointments usually take around 30 minutes, depending on the local register office.
5 Receive the funeral paperwork
After registration, the registrar will usually issue the paperwork needed for the funeral director. In some cases, the coroner will issue the required paperwork instead.
6 Continue with funeral arrangements
Once the correct paperwork is in place, Bay Tree Funerals can continue helping you with the funeral arrangements, including cremation, burial, service choices and personal details.
What information may be needed?
The registrar may ask for details about the person who has died, so it can be helpful to have key information ready.
- Full name and any previous names
- Date and place of birth
- Last home address
- Occupation or former occupation
- Marital or civil partnership status
- Details of a spouse or civil partner, if applicable
Who can register a death?
A close relative will usually register the death. If a relative is not available, other people may be able to register, such as someone present at the death, a person arranging the funeral or a responsible person from the place where the death occurred.
The register office will confirm who is allowed to register based on the circumstances.
Registering a death FAQs
When should a death be registered?
You must wait until the Medical Examiner’s office confirms that you can register. Once you have been told you can register, the death should usually be registered within 5 days, unless the coroner is involved or the register office agrees otherwise.
Where do I register the death?
The death is normally registered in the district where the person died. If they died in Leicester, this will usually be Leicester City Council. If they died in Leicestershire, this will usually be Leicestershire County Council.
Can Bay Tree Funerals register the death for me?
No. The death must usually be registered by a qualified informant, such as a close relative. However, we can explain the process and tell you what paperwork we will need for the funeral.
What happens if the coroner is involved?
If the coroner is investigating the death, registration may be delayed. The coroner’s office will explain what happens next and may issue paperwork allowing the funeral to proceed.
Do I need death certificates?
You may need certified copies of the death certificate for banks, pensions, insurance, property matters and other organisations. The registrar can explain how to purchase copies.
Can I arrange the funeral before registration is complete?
Yes, you can speak with Bay Tree Funerals before registration is complete. Some arrangements can begin, but the funeral cannot usually be finalised until the correct legal paperwork is in place.
Need help understanding the next step?
If you are unsure how to register a death or what paperwork is needed for the funeral, please call Bay Tree Funerals. We will guide you clearly and calmly.
Bay Tree Funeral Directors7A Welford Road, Blaby, Leicester, LE8 4FT