Description
Investigate deaths on behalf of the medical examiner/coroner by responding to scenes, documenting bodies and evidence, gathering histories, coordinating autopsies and testing, and preparing reports that support determination of cause and manner of death and any legal responsibility.
- • Respond to death scenes and conduct medicolegal investigations.
- • Perform external examinations, document identifiers, and assess signs of trauma and postmortem changes.
- • Observe, photograph, and record body position, scene conditions, and related evidence.
- • Collect and document medical history, medications, and social circumstances relevant to the death.
- • Interview witnesses, family, and first responders to establish timeline and circumstances.
- • Identify decedents or assist with identification using fingerprints, dental records, tattoos, and personal effects.
- • Inventory, secure, and preserve personal property and evidence; maintain chain of custody.
- • Coordinate safe removal of remains and transport to the morgue.
- • Attend and document autopsies; relay scene findings to the forensic pathologist.
- • Request and coordinate toxicology, radiology, and other ancillary testing.
- • Compile information for death certificates and case files; submit findings to the medical examiner/coroner.
- • Prepare clear, timely investigative reports and complete required forms.
- • Locate and document next of kin; make notifications as authorized and record status of attempts.
- • Provide information and updates to families regarding investigative processes and disposition procedures.
- • Collaborate with law enforcement, EMS, public health, and prosecutors to coordinate activities.
- • Arrange release of remains and personal effects to authorized parties; manage unclaimed property per policy.
- • Testify at inquests, hearings, and court trials regarding investigative findings.
- • Document the disposition of minor dependents and coordinate with social services when needed.
- • Serve on-call shifts and respond to major incidents or mass fatality events.
- • Ensure compliance with statutes, agency policies, and reporting requirements; maintain data in case management systems.
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
