Autopsy Procedures — What Families Should Know

If a loved one’s body has been taken for a post-mortem examination, you are likely feeling distressed and uncertain. This guide explains what an autopsy involves, why the coroner may order one, and what your rights are as a family member.

An autopsy (also called a post-mortem examination) is a medical examination of a body to determine the cause of death. When the coroner orders one, it is part of their investigation into the circumstances of the death.

Why Would an Autopsy Be Ordered?

A coroner may order an autopsy when:

• The cause of death is unknown
• The death was sudden or unexpected
• The death occurred during or shortly after a medical procedure
• There is suspicion of foul play, accident, or suicide
• The death was work-related
• The deceased was in custody or detention
• The death involved a child or infant (including SIDS investigations)
• There are public health concerns (e.g., infectious disease)

Types of Autopsy

Coronial (Forensic) Autopsy

Ordered by the coroner as part of a death investigation. The family typically cannot object to a coronial autopsy. The examination is carried out by a forensic pathologist.

Hospital (Consent) Autopsy

Requested by hospital doctors for medical research or quality assurance. Only performed with the family’s written consent. You can choose the extent of the examination and can decline entirely.

This guide focuses on coronial autopsies, as these are the most common when a death is unexpected.

What Happens During an Autopsy

External Examination

The pathologist examines the body externally — noting height, weight, identifying marks, injuries, and any medical devices (pacemakers, stents, etc.). The body is photographed for the medical record.

Internal Examination

The pathologist makes a surgical incision (typically Y-shaped from the shoulders to the abdomen) to examine the internal organs. Each organ is weighed and examined. Tissue samples may be taken for microscopic analysis.

Special Investigations

Depending on the circumstances, additional tests may include:

• Toxicology: Testing blood, urine, and tissue for drugs, alcohol, or poisons
• Histology: Microscopic examination of tissue samples
• Microbiology: Testing for infectious diseases
• Genetic testing: Looking for inherited conditions
• CT scan or X-ray: Imaging before or instead of a full internal examination

Does the Family Have to Consent?

For a coronial autopsy: No. The coroner has legal authority to order a post-mortem without the family’s consent. This can be distressing, but the coroner’s role is to establish the cause of death — particularly if there are questions about whether the death was natural, accidental, or suspicious.

However, you do have the right to:

• Be informed that an autopsy is taking place
• Ask the coroner about the extent of the examination
• Request that the examination be limited (the coroner will consider this, but may decline if a full examination is needed)
• Request the return of tissue samples after the investigation is complete
• Receive a copy of the autopsy report once it is finalised

For a hospital autopsy: Yes. Your written consent is required, and you can specify limitations.

How Long Does It Take?

The body is usually released to the funeral director within a few days, even if the full report takes longer. Funeral arrangements can proceed in most cases while you wait for the final report.

Will the Funeral Be Delayed?

In most cases, no. The body is typically released before the full autopsy report is complete. Your funeral director can proceed with:

• Embalming and preparation
• A funeral service (may proceed once the coroner releases the body)
• Cremation or burial

However, cremation may be delayed if the coroner requires the body to be preserved for further testing. Discuss this with your funeral director and the coroner’s office.

Religious and Cultural Considerations

Most coronial systems are sensitive to religious and cultural requirements. In many cases:

• Examinations can be scheduled promptly to avoid delaying religious burial requirements (such as Jewish or Islamic customs requiring burial within 24–48 hours)
• Non-invasive imaging (CT scanning) may be used as an alternative to a full internal examination
• Religious representatives may be permitted to be present for the examination in some circumstances

If religious or cultural practices are important to your family, tell the coroner’s office as early as possible so they can make reasonable accommodations.

Getting the Autopsy Report

• Who receives it: The coroner’s office provides the report to the family upon request. It is also given to the treating doctor if relevant
• Your right to a copy: You are entitled to request and receive a copy of the autopsy report
• Timeframe: The final report may take 1–3 months or longer if toxicology testing is involved
• Understanding the report: The report uses medical terminology. Your GP or the coroner’s office can explain the findings if needed

Related Guides

• What Happens When Someone Dies — A Practical Guide
• Coronial Inquests Explained — Process, Timelines, and What to Expect
• How to Get a Death Certificate: Timelines by Country and State