What should I do now?

As soon as possible, the legal next-of-kin should select a mortuary and inform the mortuary that the case is being handled by the Jefferson County Coroner's Office. Ask them to please contact us. Should the death of your relative/friend occur on a weekend or holiday, you may still contact the mortuary. Our office does not select mortuaries. In the event arrangements are being made on behalf of the next-of-kin, it is preferable that the Coroner's Office be provided with written authorization, signed by the legal next-of-kin, to release the decedent. If this is not possible, please call the Coroner's Office for assistance. In the event someone is making arrangements for the family, it is preferable that the Coroner's Office be provided with written authorization signed by the legal next-of-kin to release the decedent.

A fax can be sent directly to 303-271-6488. The following format should be used:

ATTN: JEFFERSON COUNTY CORONER, JEFFERSON COUNTY COLORADO: 

RELEASE THE REMAINS OF MY (relationship and name of decedent) 

TO: (name of mortuary selected). SIGNED: (name and relationship).

If the decedent is to be transported out of state, the name of the local mortuary that will be picking up the decedent must be included.

Show All Answers

1. Why is the Coroner involved?
2. Where will my relative/friend be taken?
3. Is it necessary for the next-of-kin to come to the Coroner's office to identify the body? Is viewing allowed?
4. What should I do now?
5. Will an autopsy be performed?
6. How long will it take before my relative/friend is released from your office?
7. Where may I obtain a death certificate?
8. When will the autopsy be completed?
9. Will I be charged for other Coroner services?
10. What about tissue/organ donation?
11. My relative/friend was in the military. Who may I contact for information?
12. There are family members in the service. How are they notified?
13. If there are no funds for burial, what can I do?
14. How and when may personal effects be claimed?
15. I need to enter my relative/friend's residence but it is sealed. What can I do?