At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Senior Coroner in delivering a high-quality service and conducting investigations.
- Company: Herefordshire Council, dedicated to serving the community with compassion and efficiency.
- Benefits: Fee-paid position with flexible commitment and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Engage with various stakeholders and contribute to modernising coronial processes.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact by supporting bereaved families in sensitive situations.
- Qualifications: Must be a barrister, solicitor, or Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives with 5 years' experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Herefordshire Council is seeking to appoint a new Assistant Coroner to support the Senior Coroner across the full range of Coroner duties in order to deliver a high-quality Coroner service to the people of Herefordshire.
Successful candidates will be required to attend a mandatory Assistant Coroner Induction training course on 1-2 December 2026 and a follow-up course in June 2027 (date to be confirmed).
Herefordshire Council is looking for an exceptional candidate with excellent proven organisational, management and efficiency skills, as well as experience of exercising sound judgement and communicating effectively. You will work closely with the Senior Coroner to ensure the running of an efficient Coroner service that puts the bereaved at the heart of its service.
You will be required to demonstrate knowledge and experience of Coroner law and have experience in conducting investigations and an understanding of court procedure. You will also need to demonstrate the excellent communication and interpersonal skills necessary to deal with sensitive situations.
The successful candidate will be required to carry out the duties and responsibilities of a Coroner as defined in the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 and associated rules and regulations and as further described in various guidance issued by the Chief Coroner.
Assistant Coroners are required to sit a minimum of 20 days a year. These are fee-paid positions although they are likely to involve a regular commitment, which is to be agreed between the Assistant Coroner, Senior Coroner and the local authority.
Unlike in some larger and urban jurisdictions, given the rural context and smaller volume of referrals, Assistant Coroners are expected to undertake 100% of coronial duties (both administrative and court) in death and treasure cases, often as the primary point of contact for Coroner Officers, Clerks and outside agencies.
The Senior Coroner has national leadership positions around major incidents/disaster victim identification and Coroner Officer training, and this is likely to also benefit Assistant Coroners.
The area is in the process of updating both internal and external processes and ways of working in line with contemporary expectations, including working 100% digitally on Civica and greater use of video link hearings.
Assistant Coroners are likely to have relevant experience to contribute fully to these changes and have opportunities to engage with external stakeholders such as the police, Medical Examiners, mortuary/pathology services, registrars, and Treasure Finds Liaison Officers.
The successful candidate will be a barrister or a solicitor or Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives and satisfy the judicial-appointment eligibility condition which means they will have 5 years of experience whilst holding that qualification. They will be under the age of 75 and be subject to the appointment and eligibility conditions within the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (s.23 and Schedule 3).
Assistant Coroners in Hereford employer: Herefordshire Council
Herefordshire Council is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for Assistant Coroners to engage in meaningful work that directly impacts the community. With a commitment to professional development and a supportive work culture, employees benefit from training opportunities and the chance to collaborate with experienced professionals in a rural setting. The Council prioritises the well-being of the bereaved, ensuring that staff are equipped to handle sensitive situations with care and compassion.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Coroners in Hereford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the coroner field, attend relevant events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Assistant Coroner role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of Coroner law and court procedures. We suggest practising common interview questions with a friend or mentor to boost your confidence. Remember, showing your expertise can really set you apart from other candidates!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. We believe this small gesture can make a big difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that job! We make it easy for you to showcase your skills and experience directly to the hiring team. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on any new opportunities that pop up!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Coroners in Hereford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your experience in conducting investigations and your knowledge of Coroner law. We want to see how your background aligns with the duties of an Assistant Coroner, so don’t hold back!
Communicate Clearly:Since this role involves dealing with sensitive situations, it’s crucial to demonstrate your excellent communication skills. Use clear and concise language in your application to show us you can handle tough conversations with empathy.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements mentioned in the job description. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their skills to what we’re looking for.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Herefordshire Council
✨Know Your Coroner Law
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Coroner law and the Coroners and Justice Act 2009. Being able to discuss relevant legislation confidently will show that you're well-prepared and understand the legal framework you'll be working within.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves dealing with sensitive situations, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and empathetically. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've effectively communicated in challenging circumstances, as this will highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Given the need for excellent organisational and management skills, think of specific instances where you've successfully managed multiple tasks or projects. Be ready to explain how you prioritised your workload and ensured efficiency, especially in high-pressure environments.
✨Engage with the Digital Shift
With the move towards digital processes, be prepared to discuss your experience with digital tools and platforms. Familiarise yourself with Civica and video link hearings, and express your enthusiasm for contributing to the modernisation of the Coroner service.
