What is an autopsy?
An autopsy involves examination of the exterior of the body and opening of the body and examination of organs and tissues to determine the cause and manner of death, and occasionally assist with the positive identification of the decedent. The cause of death is the medical condition that actually caused life to cease, while the manner of death is a classification (natural, accidental, homicide, suicide, or could not be determined) of the means by which death was caused to occur. This examination will not interfere with or prevent the body from being released to the family for funeral arrangements or viewing.

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1. How can I obtain copies of reports?
2. How can I obtain a copy of the death certificate?
3. How do we claim or recover the decedent’s body?
4. Do all medical examiner cases get autopsied?
5. What is an autopsy?
6. What if the family does not want an autopsy?
7. What does a person do on finding a family member deceased?
8. Can we visit and view the decedent at your facility?
9. If I have questions about the autopsy or toxicology reports, can I get an explanation of the medical information?
10. Must I do anything differently if a baby dies unexpectedly?
11. Does the family pay for any of the Medical Examiner services?
12. Who can we call for additional information, counseling, or assistance?