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1. How do I obtain copies of reports?

Autopsy and toxicology reports are available upon submission of Records Request Form

Upon receipt of your records request you will receive a response by our records department detailing the next steps, allow three business days for this response. Please ensure your information, including email, is accurate on the submitted form. 

2. How can I obtain a copy of a death certificate?

Our office completes only the certification portion of a death certificate, which is then completed by the funeral director who files it. Original copies for insurance and estate purposes are usually provided by the funeral director, but can also be obtained from the Vital Statistics Officer in the municipal jurisdiction of the death location, or by contacting the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services by calling 609-292-4087 or writing to: Vital Statistics P.O. Box 370 Trenton, NJ 08625-0370

3. How do we claim or recover the decedent's body?

Contact should be established by the Next of Kin to a funeral home of your choice. The funeral home representatives are knowledgeable on the established protocols for the release of the decedent and final arrangements.

4. Is an autopsy required on all cases?

Not all cases that are determined to fall under the jurisdiction of the Medical Examiner’s Office require an autopsy. This determination is made by the pathologist after review of the decedent’s medical/social history, investigative information and other documentation. 

5. What if the family does not want an autopsy?

The Medical Examiner autopsy, unlike a hospital autopsy, does not require permission from the next of kin. It is done under statutory authority. If the family has a religious objection to the autopsy, the Medical Examiner will make every effort to limit the procedure as far as possible. If the Medical Examiner does determine that a full autopsy is necessary to fulfill legal responsibilities, the family may present their objection to a court of law for consideration before the autopsy is performed.

6. Can we view the decedent at your facility?

Our facility does not permit visitation, but you may make arrangements to visit the decedent at the funeral home through your funeral home representative.