The Marston Series

Do you think these two titles, coroner and medical examiner, describe the same position? Think again. They are very different. So, here is the question: What Is the Difference Between a Coroner and a Medical Examiner Anyway? I have the short answer. A coroner is a person who: * Is elected * Confirms yes, the person is deceased and certifies the death * Does not have to possess a medical degree (some jurisdictions have other requirements) * Can investigate deaths * If an autopsy is needed the medical examiner will have to be contacted * Identifies the body * Notifies the next of kin * Collects and returns personal effects to the family * Signs the death certificate A Medical Examiner is a person who: * Usually is appointed to the position * Must be a physician * Usually trained to be a forensic pathologists * Performs autopsies Meet  Dr. Abraham Chen. He is the Medical Examiner for the town of Marston. He's short for a man by American standards. He has Asian