Forensic Medicine: Exceptional Legitimacy of Autopsying the Deceased - A "Legal Perspective"

Abstract: The exceptional legality of autopsies means that they are not routine procedures, but rather have specific legal grounds that justify resorting to them only in exceptional circumstances, particularly in cases of suspicious, sudden, or unexplained deaths. Forensic medicine aims to determine the cause and manner of death (homicide, suicide, accident, or unknown), and is often performed under judicial authority without requiring the consent of the deceased's family. This legality ensures the achievement of justice and the uncovering of criminal facts, and is considered an essential part of the work of forensic medicine.