Growing numbers of doctors are seeking medico-legal support from the Medical Defence Union (MDU) over coroners' inquests. New MDU data reveals that the number of requests for help with coroners' inquests rose from 1,126 in 2015 to 2,537 in 2025, with a sharp rise since 2018.

GPs accounted for over 60% of requests for support in 2025, while most other cases came from doctors working in hospitals (1).

Despite an overall decrease in the number of deaths reported to coroners last year, latest Government figures show that the proportion of deaths resulting in an inquest increased from 21% in 2024 to 24% in 2025 (2). The most common conclusions were misadventure, suicide, and drug- and alcohol-related deaths.

Dr Udvitha Nandasoma at the MDU explained what might be driving more GPs to seek support:

“We’re seeing that even in straightforward inquests, GPs are often called upon to give evidence about a patient’s medical history, for example about their mental health or the prescribing of medication. Additionally, the families of patients often have questions for the GP about the medical care provided, for example in cases of death by suicide.

“More complex inquests can involve multiple parties, often with legal representatives, including NHS Trusts, individual healthcare providers, and bereaved families – navigating this as an individual GP can be daunting and time consuming, so getting professional support is vital. We have also seen an increase in GP practices being designated as Interested Persons (IPs), leading them to request legal representation at the inquest."

On the importance of seeking early support, Dr Nandasoma added: “We know inquests can place a significant emotional and professional burden on doctors who are already working under considerable pressure. Many find it hugely stressful to give evidence about their clinical decisions in front of a patient’s family and to be subjected to public criticism if the case is reported in the media.

“We encourage members facing a coroner's case to seek our advice as soon as possible. We can help them navigate the process from writing reports to preparing for attendance in court. Ensuring they have the best possible medico-legal advice from the outset can reduce stress and minimise the risk of complications further down the line.”

Reflecting on her involvement with a coroner's inquest, an MDU member said:

“This was my first experience preparing statements and dealing with a coroner’s inquest. I cannot thank the MDU team enough - they were incredibly kind, understanding, and helpful in alleviating my anxieties and preparing me for the day. I now feel more confident as a doctor in facing such situations, knowing that the MDU is backing me."

The MDU is running a free webinar on how to deal with coroners’ inquests on the 1^st September at 7pm. For more information, go to MDU webinar | Coroners’ investigations and inquests: understanding the process and your role

For further free guidance, tools, and support materials on dealing with a coroner's inquest, go to the MDU website Coroners' inquiries

Notes to editors

1. MDU statistics: In 2015 the MDU supported on 1126 cases related to coroners' inquests. This rose to 2537 in 2025

2. Coroners statistics 2025: England and Wales - GOV.UK

More than 2,500 doctors asked for MDU’s help with coroners' inquests in 2025