What does a coroner do?

Coroners are in charge of recording the cause, time, and manner of death of citizens in their jurisdiction. It is the coroner’s job to determine if the manner of death was natural or if foul play was involved. If needed, the coroner will request an investigation. Some coroners may be elected or appointed to the role and may have served previously in other crime prevention or government positions. When a coroner investigates or reports a suspicious death, they may refer to a forensic specialist for assistance. Local laws vary by jurisdiction as to what the coroner has the power to do.