After a loss

Autopsies and the medical examiner

When one is required, what it costs, and how long it can take.

An autopsy is a medical examination of the body after death to find out the cause. Most deaths don't involve one. When one does happen, it's usually for one of two reasons: the law requires it, or the family asks for one.

When the medical examiner gets involved

Each state decides which deaths go to a medical examiner or coroner. A medical examiner is usually a doctor appointed to the job. A coroner is often an elected county official, and may not be a doctor. Common examples include sudden or unexpected deaths, accidents, deaths that might involve violence and deaths with no doctor in attendance.

When the medical examiner decides an autopsy is needed, the family usually can't stop it, although some states allow objections on religious grounds. There's normally no charge to the family for these.

When a family asks for one

Families sometimes request an autopsy to understand an illness or for peace of mind. Hospitals may do one for a patient who died there, sometimes at no cost. Private autopsies are usually paid for by the family, and prices vary widely.

What it can delay

• The body is usually released to the funeral home within a few days, and an open-casket viewing is usually still possible.
• The death certificate may first list the cause as "pending." A pending certificate can often be used for some tasks, but some life insurers wait for the final one.
• Full reports can take weeks or months. Families can usually request a copy.