When someone close to us dies it can be a very stressful and confusing time


The First Steps What to do when someone dies


When someone dies, you will need to inform a number of people and organisations and complete certain documents needed by law. If you are a relative or friend you can do some of these things yourself. Others will need to be done by the executor or administrator of the estate. There is plenty of support available to help you through this difficult time.


• Obtain a medical certificate cause of death (MCCD) signed by a doctor or, if the Coroner is involved, take instructions from Coroner’s Officers regarding registration of the death


• Register the death at the Register Office. You’ll find details of how to do this further in this brochure


• Contact a funeral director, if you intend to use one


• Begin arrangements for the funeral – you should check the will for any special requests.


As early as possible:


• Contact the executor as soon as you can to enable him/her to start the process of obtaining probate if necessary. The executor is usually nominated in the will.


• If there is no will, decide who will apply to manage the deceased’s affairs and contact the Probate Registry to apply for ‘letters of administration’ if necessary


Sheffield Register Office Bereavement Guide


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