FAQs • Luzerne County, PA • CivicEngage

What happens if a death is pending investigation?: If a death is pending investigation a pending investigation death certificate will be issued by the Coroner’s office to the funeral home so that the family may proceed with disposition of the body and other arrangements. Once the Coroner’s office investigation is completed or if cause and/or manner of death cannot be determine a final death certificate will be issued to the funeral home. The time it takes for a Coroner’s office investigation varies based on autopsy, toxicology, microscopic testing, along with the Law Enforcement investigation.

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Coroner

1. How do I obtain a death certificate?: All final death certificates will be obtained from the funeral home or the PA Department of Vital Records.

2. I am a funeral director and need authorization for cremation?: Please download the form provided. Fax, (570-820-6319) the completed form and a completed copy of th death certificate to the office. We will provide written authorization to you and the crematory.

3. What do I do if I think someone has passed away?: Dial 911 and the dispatcher will dispatch the appropriate resources from EMS, Police, and the Coroner’s Office.

4. Does the Coroner’s Office recommend funeral homes?: No the Coroner’s Office WILL NOT recommend any funeral home over another. If needed the Coroner’s office will provide a family with a listing of the funeral homes in or near a certain community or the county.

5. How do I obtain Coroner, Autopsy, Toxicology reports?: Reports can be requested by calling the office and further instructions will be given to you.

6. What happens if a death is pending investigation?: If a death is pending investigation a pending investigation death certificate will be issued by the Coroner’s office to the funeral home so that the family may proceed with disposition of the body and other arrangements. Once the Coroner’s office investigation is completed or if cause and/or manner of death cannot be determine a final death certificate will be issued to the funeral home. The time it takes for a Coroner’s office investigation varies based on autopsy, toxicology, microscopic testing, along with the Law Enforcement investigation.