The District Twenty Medical Examiner is required by Florida Statute 406 to conduct an investigation of all sudden, unexpected, natural, suspicious or violent deaths. Additionally, when a deceased person is to be cremated, dissected or buried at sea or brought into the state without proper medical certification, the Medical Examiner is called to investigate. The purpose of the investigation is to determine the cause and the circumstances of the death. 

Does an autopsy interfere with viewing and funeral arrangements?

The incisions made during an autopsy are unobtrusive and will not interfere with a viewing. Funeral directors have special training and can conceal certain injuries or lesions, if there will be a viewing.

Is an autopsy always required?

Autopsies are mandated in certain deaths, in accordance with Florida Statute 406 and Administrative Code 11G. In some cases, an autopsy is not necessary and the Medical Examiner may perform an external examination. Although permission for an autopsy by the next-of-kin is not required, the Medical Examiner will take all necessary steps to ensure that the family is aware that an autopsy will be performed and discuss with the family the reason that an autopsy may be necessary. All objections to the autopsy will be carefully discussed with the family and every attempt will be made to meet the family's wishes.

What about organ and tissue donation?

Whenever possible, the Medical Examiner will allow removal of organs for transplant or harvesting of tissues, if the next-of-kin requests it. Organs such as kidneys and liver are not suitable for transplantation from cadaver donors and may only be obtained from donors on life support. Tissues such as bone, cornea and heart valves may be used for transplantation if removed within approximately 24 hours after death.

What benefits does an autopsy provide?

The autopsy can provide information about the cause of death or may also uncover an undiagnosed medical condition which may be of interest to the family. An autopsy may be helpful in answering future questions that may arise from insurance carriers or litigation.

What happens during an investigation?

The Medical Examiner assumes charge of the body and reviews past medical history, speaks to the family and speaks with other agencies. Some questions asked of the family are done so in order to obtain information for the purpose of the investigation or death certification process.

Why is an investigation necessary?

In Florida, a person's doctor is not permitted to sign a death certificate if the death comes under the jurisdiction of the Medical Examiner or if the patient’s death was not caused by the natural disease for which the patient was being treated. Examinations and autopsies are performed by the Medical Examiners who are medical doctors with specialized training in pathology and forensic pathology. There is no charge to the family for these services.