Vic coroner resigns as alcohol claim nixed

Victoria's chief coroner Sara Hinchey has resigned, despite being cleared of allegations that she took alcohol belonging to the court.

The Judicial Commission of Victoria confirmed on Tuesday it had dismissed the claim, a year after a series of complaints were levelled against Judge Hinchey.

The coroner stood aside when the allegations were revealed in August last year, but on Tuesday it was also confirmed she would resign from the post.

Attorney-General Jill Hennessy noted Judge Hinchey's contribution to the coroner's court, particularly her commitment to improving the way it serves families and victims.

"She has more than 19 years of legal experience as a trial and appellate barrister, and will continue to bring her expertise and extensive experience to the bench," Ms Hennessy said in a statement.

In April, the commission cleared of 87 of the 92 claims against her, but decided five allegations about Judge Hinchey warranted further investigation, including the one about taking alcohol.

The claim was looked at by an investigating panel, which found no evidence to support it.

"As such, the commission's consideration of the complaint received regarding her Honour Judge Hinchey's conduct has now concluded," the commission said in a statement on Tuesday.

Four allegations about Judge Hinchey's workplace conduct were substantiated and referred in April to Victorian County Court chief judge Peter Kidd, for counselling.

Judge Hinchey was accused of speaking in a way "that could have been understood as threatening to harm the professional reputations of those people" and of frequently swearing during meetings with senior staff.

Deputy state coroner Caitlin English and retired deputy Iain West have been acting as chief coroner since Judge Hinchey stood aside.

Ms English will continue in the role until a permanent replacement is found.