Which medical professional is typically responsible for determining the time of death?

The medical examiner is typically responsible for determining the time of death due to their specialized training in forensic pathology. This role involves examining the body after death, performing autopsies, and analyzing various medical and environmental factors that may indicate the time of death. The medical examiner uses scientific methods, including assessing body temperature, rigor mortis, and livor mortis, among other criteria, to arrive at an accurate estimate.

In contrast, while a coroner may also contribute to the investigation of death, their responsibilities can vary significantly depending on the jurisdiction, and they may not possess the same level of medical training as a medical examiner. Paramedics and nurses primarily focus on providing immediate medical care and assistance in emergency situations, and while they may estimate time of death in certain circumstances during their efforts, they do not have the authority or training to determine this officially in legal contexts.