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Frequently Asked Questions

What is an autopsy?

An autopsy is an examination of a body after death using surgical techniques. An autopsy may be only an external examination, or it may be comprehensive. Sometimes, an autopsy is limited to one organ system and sometimes all organ systems are examined.

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1. Why is the Coroner involved?
2. Where will my relative/friend be taken?
3. Why is my family member/friend being taken to the Coroner's Office
4. What is an autopsy?
5. Will an autopsy be performed?
6. Who will perform the autopsy?
7. Will the autopsy affect funeral arrangements?
8. How will an autopsy benefit me or my family?
9. How long will it take before my relative/friend is released from the Coroner's Office?
10. Could there be a religious conflict?
11. What about tissue/organ donation?
12. Will the Coroner charge me?
13. Is it necessary for me to come to the Coroner's Office to identify the body?
14. Is viewing or visitation allowed?
15. When will a death certificate be available?
16. Where can I obtain a death certificate?
17. Will a Coroner's report be available?
18. How can personal possessions be claimed?
19. What items will not be released?
20. I need to enter my relative/friends residence, but it is sealed. What can I do?
21. What should I do now?
22. Who is the legal next of kin?
23. My relative/friend was in the military. Who can I contact for information?
24. What can I do if there are no funds for burial?
25. How can the Public Administrator benefit me or my family?
26. What will the Public Administrator cost?