Are autopsies always performed when the Coroner investigates a death?

• Sometimes the Coroner may find it necessary to investigate a sudden or unexpected death, but after inquiry decide that enough information is present to determine the cause and manner of death, and that an autopsy is not necessary to make these determinations. Typically, these are cases of sudden deaths from natural disease processes. • More Information... • Why are autopsies performed? There are a number of reasons why autopsies are performed. However, the basic reason is to determine how and why an individual died suddenly and/or unexpectedly. The determination of the truth is our only underlying motive. This truth may later be of great service to the family or a Court of Law. Frequently, families do find great comfort when they understand exactly how and why their loved one died. • More Information... Return to top • Is there a charge for autopsies? There are no charges associated with autopsies when they are performed as part of an official Coroners investigation. • How do I ...  more

• Sometimes the Coroner may find it necessary to investigate a sudden or unexpected death, but after inquiry decide that enough information is present to determine the cause and manner of death, and that an autopsy is not necessary to make these determinations. Typically, these are cases of sudden deaths from natural disease processes. • More Information... • Why are autopsies performed? • There are a number of reasons why autopsies are performed. However, the basic reason is to determine how and why an individual died suddenly and/or unexpectedly. The determination of the truth is our only underlying motive. This truth may later be of great service to the family or a Court of Law. Frequently, families do find great comfort when they understand exactly how and why their loved one died. • More Information... Return to top • Is there a charge for autopsies? • There are no charges associated with autopsies when they are performed as part of an official Coroners investigation. • How do I ...  more