Coroner FAQs
If there is no pre-need agreement with a funeral home, final arrangements must be made. You may make these arrangements with any funeral home or mortuary. You may find it helpful to decide on the type of service and disposition the family would prefer prior to calling as it makes it easier to gather and compare information.
As a service, we have provided a listing of the funeral homes and mortuaries in Fresno County, but you need not choose from this list. The Coroner's Office does not endorse or recommend any of the businesses on this list, and suggests you compare before making a final decision. If you choose to use one of these companies, you do so at your own risk.
Typically, a decedent is ready for release to a funeral home within 48 hours. The funeral home or mortuary of your choice will coordinate the release on your behalf.
There are many reasons why a loved one may be taken to the Coroner's Office, including but not limited to: a private physician cannot sign the death certificate; the deceased did not have a physician or it has been too long since the last visit; the death was possibly due to accident, suicide, homicide or an unknown cause, or the person died alone.
The Fresno County Sheriff-Coroner's Office is the agency responsible for investigating reportable deaths in Fresno County. The office performs medico-legal investigations for legal and public health purposes under the authority of state law. Just because the Coroner investigates a death does not mean there is a belief that a crime has been committed. It is the Coroner's legal responsibility to identify the deceased, to notify the next-of-kin or legal representative, and to protect the estate of the deceased until it can be turned over to the legal heirs or the Office of the Public Administrator.
The County of Fresno does not have financial assistance available. For those who cannot afford funeral services, or in cases when we are unable to find next of kin, the County provides a direct cremation. There are no provisions for services, viewing or individual burial.
If you feel you might need this service, you will be asked to fill out a County Burial Application, which includes information needed for the death certificate, some basic financial questions, provide documentation, and sign authorization papers.
