Pathology

The Medical Examiner is a physician specially trained and certified in the field of Forensic Pathology.  The Medical Examiner performs autopsies to determine the cause of death and the manner of death.  The physicians work closely with investigators within the department and police detectives who obtain information related to the person's demise.

The determination of the cause of death can be straight-forward or may be more complicated, requiring the assistance of toxicology tests, laboratory reports, medical records, histologic examination of tissues, and other studies. In addition to their work in the autopsy lab, the forensic pathologist may attend scene investigations, perform public service education to agencies that work with the office, and testify in court.