Ala. Code § 15-4-3: Subpoenas for Witnesses; Witnesses to Be Summoned and Examined.

In an inquest under this chapter, the coroner may issue subpoenas for witnesses returnable forthwith or at such time and place as he may appoint. He must summon and examine as a witness any person who, in his opinion or that of any of the jury, has any knowledge of the facts; and he may also summon as a witness a surgeon or physician who must inspect the body in the presence of the jury and give a professional opinion as to the cause of death.