Ala. Code § 11-5-10: Special Coroner - Appointment.

The judge of probate has authority to appoint a special coroner:

(1) When the coroner has not qualified or the office is vacant and the emergency requires such officer;

(2) When the coroner is absent from the county, having no deputy therein;

(3) When the coroner is imprisoned; or,

(4) When the sheriff and coroner are both parties or both interested.