The Procurator Fiscal has a duty to investigate all sudden and unexplained deaths, as well as deaths in suspicious circumstances.
Approximately 13,500 sudden, unexplained and unexpected deaths are reported annually to the Procurator Fiscal.
Deaths are usually reported to the Procurator Fiscal by the police, a doctor or the Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages.
Many deaths are reported because no-one has been able to issue a death certificate and the Procurator Fiscal has to ascertain the cause of death by instructing an autopsy if necessary.
Deaths investigations have become increasingly complex due to advances in medical science.
The purpose of the Procurator Fiscal's investigation is to decide whether there is a need for a criminal prosecution, or if a Fatal Accident Inquiry should be held.
More information on the role of the Procurator Fiscal in the investigation of deaths and on post mortem examinations is available via the links below:
The Role of the Procurator Fiscal in the Investigation of Deaths
Post Mortem Examinations
Liaison with families and nearest relatives
Ensuring that the nearest relatives are kept fully informed on all developments during the investigation is of crucial importance. The Procurator Fiscal will ensure that families are updated on any developments in the investigation.
Diversity
Families and nearest relatives come from different backgrounds with diverse needs. You can read how the COPFS deals with
Diversity issues and how our
action plans help us to appreciate diversity in our communities and ensure fairness in the way we provide services.
Disabled Access to Procurator Fiscal Offices
Our
Access Guides provide some helpful information on disabled access arrangements for each of our Fiscal offices. For more information or to request additional arrangements to suit your needs, please contact the relevant office direct.
If you have any difficulty, please contact your local office or send us your
questions or comments.