In Vermont, who is mandated to complete the death certificate?

In Vermont, it is the responsibility of the funeral director to complete the death certificate. This is a crucial duty as the death certificate is an important legal document that serves multiple purposes, including establishing the cause of death, facilitating the handling of the deceased’s estate, and providing necessary data for public health statistics.

Funeral directors are trained and licensed professionals who understand the legal requirements for death registration and the accurate completion of death certificates. They work closely with healthcare providers and family members to gather the necessary information needed to fill out the certificate properly, ensuring compliance with state laws.

The other roles mentioned, such as that of the coroner, while involved in the process particularly in cases of an investigation or suspicious deaths, do not typically take on the responsibility of completing the death certificate unless they are also serving in the capacity of the death certifier. The next of kin and cemetery director also do not have the authority or obligation to complete the death certificate; their roles are more aligned with the administrative or arrangements aspects following a death.