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- Tasks: Support Senior and Area Coroner in delivering a high-quality service to the bereaved.
- Company: Reading Borough Council, committed to efficient and compassionate Coroner services.
- Benefits: Fee paid at £516 per day with flexible commitment.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in sensitive situations while developing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Must be a barrister, solicitor, or Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives with 5 years' experience.
- Other info: Mandatory training courses in December 2026 and June 2027.
Reading Borough Council is seeking to appoint a new Assistant Coroner to support the Senior and Area Coroner across the full range of Coroner duties in order to deliver a high-quality Coroner service to the people of Berkshire.
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).
About the post
Reading Borough 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 and Area 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.
Who can apply
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).
Terms of the appointment
Once a Coroner is appointed, they are then a Judicial Office holder until they reach the age of 75 years (compulsory retirement age) unless they choose to resign or are removed by the Lord Chief Justice or Lord Chancellor prior to their 75th birthday.
How to apply
The candidate pack is available here: if you wish to have an informal discussion or arrange a visit, please contact either Rhiannon Charnock, Coroners Team Manager or Mrs Heidi Connor, Senior Coroner on 0118 937 2300. Suitably qualified applicants are requested to upload their CV and supporting statement (which should include disclosure of any convictions or disciplinary proceedings) to:
Assistant Coroner in London employer: Reading Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Reading Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Coroner in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the legal field, especially those who have experience as a Coroner. Attend relevant events or webinars to make connections and learn more about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of Coroner law and court procedures. We recommend practising common interview questions with a friend or mentor to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your communication skills! During interviews, be ready to discuss how you've handled sensitive situations in the past. Use specific examples to demonstrate your interpersonal skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always here to help you navigate the process if you need it.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Coroner in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Make sure you understand Coroner law and court procedures inside out. We want to see that you've got the experience to back up your application, so highlight any relevant investigations you've conducted.
Tailor Your CV: Your CV should reflect the skills and experiences that match the Assistant Coroner role. We’re looking for organisational and communication skills, so make sure these shine through in your application.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: This is your chance to show us why you're the perfect fit! Be clear and concise, and don’t forget to mention any convictions or disciplinary proceedings as required. Honesty is key!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application via our website. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right place. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Reading Borough 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.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Be ready to discuss how you manage your time and prioritise tasks. Think of specific instances where your organisational skills have led to successful outcomes, especially in a legal or investigative context.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions during the interview. Think about how you would handle various situations that an Assistant Coroner might encounter, and be prepared to explain your reasoning and decision-making process.