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The primary role of a coroner or medical examiner is to establish jurisdiction for a case. This responsibility is crucial because it determines the authority under which the death is being investigated. Establishing jurisdiction involves identifying whether the death falls under the purview of the coroner or medical examiner based on factors such as the manner of death (natural, accidental, homicide, suicide, or undetermined) and the circumstances surrounding it.

Once jurisdiction is established, the coroner or medical examiner can then proceed with further investigations, which include determining the cause and manner of death, potentially performing autopsies, and gathering evidence relevant to the circumstances of the death. This foundational role ensures that the investigation is conducted properly and that any subsequent legal proceedings can occur under the correct jurisdiction.

While writing the death certificate, providing legal testimony, and handling funeral arrangements are also important tasks associated with death investigations, they rely on the initial establishment of jurisdiction to be performed accurately and lawfully.