Amy Winehouse inquest could be ruled illegal following coroner's resignation

LONDON -- Tragic singer Amy Winehouse's inquest may be declared illegal after doubts were raised over the presiding coroner's qualifications.

Suzanne Greenaway was appointed to the role of assistant deputy coroner by her husband. She recorded a verdict of misadventure after the "Rehab" star, 27, died of alcohol poisoning at her London home last year.

But officials confirmed Tuesday that Greenaway resigned in November after it was alleged she did not meet strict rules governing the appointment of coroners.

A top-level investigation also was launched into the conduct of her husband, Inner North London Coroner Dr. Andrew Scott Reid.

Dave Hogan/Getty Images

Amy Winehouse's inquest may be declared illegal after doubts were raised over the presiding coroner's qualifications.

Rules state Greenaway could only be appointed if she had been in the Law Society as a solicitor for at least five years. But she only joined two-and-a-half years ago.

The law also requires her to have five years as a "qualified medical practitioner." But she only qualified as a nurse in her native Australia and worked as a lawyer there.

Potentially, every one of the 30 or so inquests she presided over could be declared illegal.

However, officials insisted this only will happen if verdicts are challenged in London's High Court.

Scott Reid said Tuesday night, "In November it became apparent I'd made an error in the appointment process. While I am confident that all of the inquests handled were done so correctly, I apologize if this matter causes distress."

To read more, go to The Sun.