The Coroner of Autauga County may appoint deputy coroners to serve without compensation and to serve at the pleasure of the county coroner. The deputy coroners shall take the oath of office required by Section 279 of the Constitution of Alabama of 1901, shall serve under the supervision of the coroner, and shall perform the same duties as the coroner. Deputy coroners shall possess the same authority to issue subpoenas related to inquests as prescribed for coroners by state law.