What is the primary role of the coroner?

The primary role of the coroner is to determine the cause of death. This is a crucial function as it involves investigating deaths that may be unexplained, suspicious, or involve trauma. The coroner reviews medical records, conducts autopsies when necessary, and gathers information about the circumstances surrounding the death to reach a conclusion about how and why the individual died. This determination is important not only for legal purposes but also for public health statistics and future prevention strategies.

While other responsibilities, such as assisting law enforcement or working with medical professionals, may intersect with the coroner's duties, these are secondary functions. Conducting arrests and providing medical care are outside the scope of what a coroner does, as their expertise lies in death investigation rather than law enforcement or clinical medical practice. Thus, recognizing the coroner's main responsibility to establish cause of death helps clarify their critical position within the legal and healthcare systems.