Description
Leads medicolegal death investigations within the jurisdiction, ordering autopsies, pathological and toxicological analyses, conducting inquests, and determining cause and manner of death, including responsibility in accidental, violent, or unexplained cases.
- • Document body position, condition, and scene evidence.
- • Order and oversee autopsies; conduct preliminary body examinations to assess identity, trauma, and time-of-death indicators.
- • Investigate the cause, manner, and circumstances of deaths and confirm decedent identity.
- • Complete and certify death certificates with cause and manner of death.
- • Collect and record pertinent medical and social history.
- • Secure, document, and preserve property and evidence, including medications and notes.
- • Prepare case files, investigative reports, and required forms.
- • Remove or supervise removal of bodies and arrange transport to the morgue.
- • Interview witnesses and persons present at death scenes.
- • Testify at inquests, hearings, and court trials.
- • Provide information on death circumstances to next of kin.
- • Locate, verify, and document next-of-kin details and notification status.
- • Coordinate with law enforcement, public health, and forensic laboratories.
- • Inventory personal effects recovered from bodies.
- • Release personal effects to authorized persons and manage unclaimed remains and property.
- • Arrange and document notifications to next of kin.
- • Record the disposition of minor children and arrangements for their care.
- • Obtain wills, burial instructions, and other documents pertinent to the case.
- • Witness and certify deaths carried out under judicial orders.
- • Direct and supervise staff performing autopsies, pathology and toxicology testing, and records preparation.
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
