Legal definition
A still-born child is legally defined as "a child born after the 24th week of pregnancy who did not, at any time after being born breathe, or show any other signs of life".
When a child is still-born, the doctor or midwife who was present at the birth or who examined the baby, will issue a medical certificate of still-birth. This certificate must be taken to the Register Office.
Every stillbirth in England or Wales must be registered in the district in which it takes place.
If it is inconvenient to attend this office then it is possible to register at a more convenient register office by means of a legal declaration. This may delay the issue of relevant documents for a few days. Please contact the Register Office for further details if necessary.
Who can register a stillbirth
In the case of the stillbirth of a child whose parents are married to each other, either the mother or father can register the stillbirth.
Where the parents are not married to each other the mother should either register the stillbirth herself; or be accompanied by the father where his name is to be recorded in the register.
In exceptional circumstances it may be possible for another relative to register the stillbirth, but you should contact the Register Office in advance for advice.
Contact us
Please contact the Registry Office if you have any queries.
