Coroners
Career Snapshot
Coroners are medical investigators. They collaborate with other investigators to determine the cause of unintentional, violent, or mysterious deaths. The coroner is a public servant who is either appointed or elected. A coroner who is also a physician is known as a medical examiner.
The coroner may go to the death scene and consult with law enforcement and public health professionals. Autopsies and highly specialised lab tests are performed or supervised by coroners. With all available data, the coroner must assign a cause of death and issue a death certificate.
The coroner may be called to give evidence in court. Coroners must be systematic and detail oriented because their work may be used to convict someone of a crime. The hours can be inconsistent, and there is a lot of paperwork. Dealing with the deceased's relatives demands compassion and respect, and it can be emotionally demanding.
The functions of the coroner are defined by local laws. A college degree is required, and medical experience is preferred. Some states require coroners to have a background in forensic pathology. Certification programmes are available through many state coroners' societies. Coroners provide an essential service to the living. It can aid in the investigation of crimes and the prevention of future killings or accidental fatalities.