Death of a British national abroad in suspicious circumstances

As well as the support which we can offer if someone dies from natural causes, we can also suggest the best way to raise any concerns with the local authorities if there is evidence of someone dying in suspicious circumstances.

Basic information

We can also offer basic information about the local police system and legal system, including any legal aid that is available.

If required, we can provide lists of local lawyers and interpreters (although we do not pay for either) and, where possible, details of support groups.

In all cases where you, as next of kin, have concerns about the circumstances surrounding the death, we suggest you get professional legal advice.

Can't investigate ourselves

We cannot investigate deaths ourselves and, in many countries, investigating authorities and the courts will not answer enquiries, including from our own staff. If this is the case, it is very important to consider appointing a local lawyer who can look after your interests in court and follow any trial for you.

Standards vary

We will consider making appropriate representations to the local authorities if there are concerns that the investigation is not being carried out in line with local procedures or if there are justified complaints about discrimination against the person who has died or their family. The standard of investigative procedures and expertise varies greatly across the world.

Meeting family representatives

Consular staff in London are available to meet family representatives. They will contact the next of kin if the investigating authorities tell us about any new developments. Where possible, if the next of kin visits the country where the person died during the early stages of the investigation and initial court hearings, our staff there may be able to meet them.

Bereavement

There are a number of organisations in the UK that can help bereaved families and friends come to terms with a death, whether the death was natural or otherwise. Some, such as Support after murder and manslaughter, can help you face the problems and difficulties that arise from death overseas under suspicious circumstances.

We also have a leaflet called Victims of crime abroad  [PDF 329KB, new window] which you may also find helpful. You can find details on our travel website under 'Our publications'.