Frequently Asked Questions

Forensic Autopsies are conducted to determine cause and manner of death. Not all death investigations result in an autopsy Government Code section 27491.4 authorizes the Coroner to conduct autopsies when needed. The Forensic Pathologist will make the determination after a review of all supporting records whether an autopsy is needed to establish the cause of death. An autopsy is not determined by the Deputy Coroner, or any other investigator at the scene.