At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the local coroner service and conduct complex inquests.
- Company: South Tyneside Council, dedicated to efficient coroner services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £142,255 pa and out-of-hours availability pay.
- Other info: Judicial role until age 75 with excellent career stability.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in sensitive situations while supporting bereaved families.
- Qualifications: Must be a barrister, solicitor, or Fellow with five years' experience.
The predicted salary is between 142255 - 142255 £ per year.
Salary: £142,255 pa (pay award pending)
Closing date: 12 noon on Friday 28th August 2026
South Tyneside Council, as lead authority for the Gateshead and South Tyneside Coroner Area, is seeking to appoint a new Senior Coroner to replace the current post-holder who is retiring.
About the Post
The Senior Coroner stands at the head of the local coroner service and statutory coroner area and takes the lead on coroner work. They will be expected to conduct inquests which are difficult or complex or will be likely to attract significant publicity. The number of reported deaths per annum is over 1,250. Accordingly, we appoint our Senior Coroner with a salary on a full-time basis, which will include payment for out of hours availability by agreement.
South Tyneside 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 local authority to ensure the running of an efficient coroner service that puts the bereaved at the heart of the service. Collaborative working with the local authority, the police and other stakeholders is essential.
You will be required to demonstrate knowledge and experience of coronial law and of basic medicine, have proven skills 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. It is essential that the successful candidate has proven experience of conducting the administration of a coroner’s jurisdiction including carrying out investigations, case management and conducting inquests.
Who can apply
The successful candidate will be a barrister, solicitor, or Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives and satisfy the judicial-appointment eligibility condition, which means they will have five years of experience whilst holding that qualification. They will be under the age of 75, have experience of working as a Senior Coroner, area coroner or assistant coroner and be subject to the appointment and eligibility conditions within the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (s.23 and Schedule 3).
Statutory 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.
If you wish to have an informal discussion or arrange a visit, please contact Angie Coutts, Governance and Corporate Affairs Officer (0191 424 7050). Suitably qualified applicants are requested to email their CV and supporting statement (which should include disclosure of any convictions or disciplinary proceedings) to Lucy Keating, Interim Director of Legal and Governance (Monitoring Officer at South Tyneside Council) (lucy.keating@southtyneside.gov.uk).
Senior Coroner for Gateshead and South Tyneside employer: South Tyneside Council
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Coroner for Gateshead and South Tyneside
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Coroner for Gateshead and South Tyneside
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at South Tyneside Council, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in South Tyneside Council and the specific role of Senior Coroner for Gateshead and South Tyneside. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for South Tyneside Council’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at South Tyneside Council
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
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In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at South Tyneside Council.
