What is the role of a coroner?

The role of a coroner primarily involves investigating deaths that are sudden, unexplained, or otherwise questionable. This public officer is responsible for determining the cause and manner of death, which includes gathering evidence, conducting inquiries, and sometimes performing inquests. The coroner's findings are crucial for legal and official records, as well as for public health assessments. In certain jurisdictions, a coroner may also be involved in determining whether a death falls under criminal investigation.

While some coroners may have medical training and can perform autopsies, their main function is investigative rather than clinical, differentiating them from medical professionals who focus solely on performing autopsies. Additionally, a coroner's duties do not encompass solving homicide cases like a detective or presiding over legal matters as a judge would. Their primary focus remains on the investigation of deaths, ensuring that appropriate protocols are followed to ascertain the circumstances surrounding a death.