Death investigation

Coronial and other medico-legal death investigation systems

Death investigation is an integral aspect of most developed societies. Yet the resources allocated to it and the sophistication of the medicolegal systems put in place by governments vary considerably across jurisdictions.

This Unit is divided into two main parts:

• Part one deals with the theoretical framework for forensic death investigation from a sociolegal perspective and focuses on the particular attributes of Coroners jurisdictions found in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. 
• Part two deals with the medicolegal or practical aspects of forensic death investigation. It includes the role of the various forensic specialists and the principles and practices they utilise when undertaking the investigation of a death scene and the subsequent medical and forensic scientific examination of the body of the deceased. 

An effective medico-legal death investigation system provides vital information for public and personal health and safety. 

This unit will also equip you with the understanding of how to best use the results of death investigations for public health and safety.