What is an autopsy and is there a charge for it?

An autopsy is a systematic examination of the body of a deceased person by a qualified physician for the purpose of determining the cause of death. A record is made on the findings of the autopsy, including microscopic and toxicology laboratory tests. These laboratory tests are conducted before the release of the body to the funeral home that the legal representative or next-of-kin has chosen.

There’s no charge to the legal representative or next-of-kin for an autopsy when a case is determined to fall under the Coroner’s jurisdiction, nor for any other test that may be conducted by the Coroner (unless specific testing not deemed by the Coroner to be consequential to cause of death, is requested by the family).

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1. Where can I obtain a death certificate?
2. Why is the Coroner involved?
3. What is an autopsy and is there a charge for it?
4. When is an autopsy performed?
5. Does the Coroner need permission from the legal representative or next-of-kin for an autopsy?
6. How do I donate my body, or a loved one's body?
7. How long does it take for a death ruling to be made?
8. When will the autopsy report be completed?
9. Where may the clothing of the deceased be located?
10. How is the funeral director selected?
11. How do I make arrangements for the body to be released from the Coroner's office?
12. Why does the Coroner charge a fee for a cremation release?
13. Will I be charged for the services of the Coroner?
14. Who will clean up the death scene?
15. Why does the Coroner refuse to release information about an investigation?
16. Is it necessary for me to come to the Coroner’s Office to identify the body?
17. Why wasn't I notified sooner?
18. Can the time of an unattended death be determined with certainty?
19. What are the office hours of the Butler County Coroner's Office?
20. How do outside entities obtain an Autopsy, Toxicology and/or Coroner's report?
21. How do I obtain a copy of an Autopsy, Coroner's Report and Toxicology Report?