A forensic autopsy is a structured medical and legal examination used to determine the cause and manner of death. Its findings assist courts, law enforcement agencies, families and public health officials. While television often cuts straight to the internal exam, the real-world procedure begins much earlier. The opening phase—intake—lays the groundwork for everything that follows.
Overview of the Forensic Autopsy Process
A complete forensic autopsy usually proceeds through five core stages:
- Body intake and identification
- Detailed external exam
- Internal organ exam
- Laboratory testing
- Final written report
Protocols preserve evidence and maintain the chain of custody.
Step 1: Intake, Identification, and Documentation
Case Number and Chain of Custody
Upon arrival at the morgue, the decedent receives a unique case number. Staff log the date and time and move the body into climate-controlled storage. A custody log accompanies both the body and any personal effects.
Initial Identification Procedures
After photographing the sealed body bag, staff open the body bag and take as-is photos to notate how the body was received. The next step is to secure any evidence (if necessary) and then continue documenting and securing clothing and jewelry. Medical intervention is identified and described. Identifying features—tattoos, implants, wristbands, scars—are noted. Fingerprints are routinely done for identification purposes. If fingerprints are not possible, other things such as DNA samples, implanted medical devices, and dental examinations can be done to positively identify a person.
Photographic Documentation and Condition Assessment
Before cleaning, staff photograph the body using standard protocols. Post-mortem changes (lividity, rigor), visible injuries, decomposition, and any medical devices are documented.
Trace Evidence Collection
Staff collect trace evidence if it is visible and necessary in a particular case. By the end of the intake, the team has compiled a documented snapshot of the body’s condition.
Roles During the Intake Phase
| Role | Key Responsibilities |
| Forensic investigators | Arrange transport; gather initial scene information |
| Autopsy technicians/Forensic pathologists | Handle the body; log personal effects; photograph and preserve evidence |
| Board-certified forensic pathologist | Supervise procedures; verify identification; begin medical documentation |
All personnel wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Why the Intake Phase Matters
Intake records can connect later lab results and connect to the scene observations. Intake procedures ensure findings can stand independent review.
Common Misconceptions About Forensic Autopsies
Popular media often starts a forensic autopsy with a scalpel. In reality, investigations begin with intake and a comprehensive external assessment. Early documentation preserves evidence that could be lost once internal dissection starts, illustrating how protocols drive reliable conclusions.
Learn More About a Forensic Autopsy
Every forensic autopsy begins with a structured intake focused on identification and documentation. This phase supports findings and assists in court cases, underscoring their importance.
Learn more about Dr. Satish Chundru, a board-certified forensic pathologist with more than 20 years of experience determining causes and manners of death—both natural and unnatural. He provides forensic autopsy services in Texas, Nevada, and Utah and offers consulting nationwide.
