What role does a coroner or medical examiner play in forensics?

A coroner or medical examiner plays a crucial role in forensics by determining the cause and manner of death in cases where it is unclear or suspicious. This process involves examining deceased individuals through autopsies, reviewing medical histories, and analyzing laboratory results. By establishing how a person died (cause of death) and the circumstances surrounding it (manner of death), they provide essential information that aids in criminal investigations and legal proceedings.

This role is particularly important in cases of homicides, suicides, accidental deaths, and unexplained deaths, as the findings can significantly influence investigations and the judicial process. In this context, the coroner or medical examiner's conclusions can help law enforcement ascertain whether a death was the result of foul play, an accident, or natural causes, thereby guiding the further direction of a case. Other options do not align with the specific duties and expertise of a coroner or medical examiner, as they focus on areas outside of cause and manner of death determinations.