First Steps When a Death Takes Place

Feel free to contact us directly as soon as a death has taken place. Our team is available to assist you throughout this process. Regardless of where the death occurred, it is essential that the deceased be certified as deceased by a medical professional. Different rules and regulations apply depending on the circumstances. Here's a general overview:

Dying in a Nursing Home or Hospital:

If the death occurs in a nursing home or hospital, the staff will guide you on the necessary steps to take. Please reach out to us, and we can provide additional information specific to your situation.

Dying at Home (Expected Cause of Death):

If the person dies at home from an expected cause of death and has been seen by their doctor within 28 days prior to the death, your local doctor or out-of-hours service can issue the required medical certificates. We can provide further guidance on this process when you contact us.

Sudden/Unexpected Death:

In the event of a sudden death, regardless of the location, it is important to report the incident to An Garda Siochána. They will then refer the case to the Coroner, who will carefully evaluate the circumstances surrounding the death. Based on their assessment, the Coroner may deem it necessary to order a post-mortem examination (also known as an autopsy) to determine the cause of death. The Coroner's office will provide instructions regarding any additional steps. We can advise you on the necessary procedures once you inform us of the circumstances.

At Mc Ateer Funeral Directors, we understand the complexity and sensitivity of handling a death. Our team is here to assist you, ensuring that all necessary rules and regulations are followed. Please call us at your earliest convenience, and we will provide you with the guidance you need during this challenging time.

View the next steps of arranging a funeral here.