Minnesota § 145.161 - DISSECTION; WHEN PERMITTED
Full text of Minnesota Minnesota Statutes § 145.161 — DISSECTION; WHEN PERMITTED, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 145.161. DISSECTION; WHEN PERMITTED
The right to dissect the dead body of a human being shall be limited to: (a) cases specially provided by statute, or by the direction or will of the deceased; (b) cases where a coroner is authorized to hold an inquest upon the body, and then only so far as the coroner may authorize dissection; (c) cases where the spouse shall authorize dissection for the purpose of ascertaining the cause of death, and then only to the extent so authorized; and (d) cases where one of the next of kin, charged by law with the duty of burial, shall authorize dissection for the purpose of ascertaining the cause of death and then only to the extent so authorized, provided no dissection shall be performed pursuant to this clause if there is objection by anyone of such next of kin. Every person who shall make, cause or procure to be made, any dissection of the body of a human being, except as hereinbefore provided, shall be guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
History:
(10227) RL s 4975; 1967 c 220 s 1; 1986 c 444; 2024 c 101 art 3 s 2
Official Publication of the State of Minnesota
Revisor of Statutes
Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota § 145.161
What does Minnesota Statutes § 145.161 cover?
Section 145.161 ("DISSECTION; WHEN PERMITTED") is part of the Minnesota Statutes, the codified statutory law of Minnesota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Minnesota § 145.161?
A common citation format is "Minnesota Statutes § 145.161" (Minnesota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Minnesota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Minnesota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Minnesota attorney.
How does Minnesota § 145.161 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Minnesota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Minnesota.