ABSTRACT
Autopsies are generally conducted under the auspices of a medical examiner (ME) or coroner who has jurisdiction where the body was found. A medical examiner is a medical doctor, usually a pathologist, and preferably a board-certified forensic pathologist. Board certification as a forensic pathologist requires a minimum of 11 years of specialized medical training after earning a four-year college degree. MEs are masters of their craft. A coroner is an elected official who may or may not have investigative training.
