The coroner’s office operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, investigating
and determining the cause and manner of death. The coroner and his staff
investigate cases of homicide, suicide, accidental death, and all natural deaths
that are sudden, unexpected, or medically unattended.
The coroner is
mandated by Georgia law to determine the cause and manner of death by an
extensive investigation, which may include a post-mortem examination (autopsy).
This investigation is independent of the police and/or fire department but is
done in conjunction with both departments.
When it is necessary for this
office to order a post-mortem examination, it is vital in determining the cause
and manner of death of the deceased. When ordered by this office, a charge is
never incurred by the family and is only performed by a board-certified forensic
pathologist.