Pennsylvania § 13919 - Autopsy, inquest and records.
Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 13919 — Autopsy, inquest and records., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 13919. Autopsy, inquest and records.
(a) Autopsy.--If, after investigation, the coroner is unable to determine the cause and manner of death, the coroner shall perform or order an autopsy on the body.
(b) Inquest.--If the coroner is unable to determine the cause and manner of death following an autopsy, the coroner may conduct an inquest upon a view of the body as provided by law. At the inquest, the coroner shall have the following duties:
(1) Ascertain the cause of death.
(2) Determine if an individual other than the deceased was criminally responsible by act or neglect and the identity of the individual who may be responsible.
(3) Examine further evidence and witnesses regarding the cause of death.
(c) Recording.--The proceedings at the inquest shall be recorded, at the expense of the county, in a manner to be provided by the county commissioners.
(d) Retention and disposal.--
(1) The coroner may retain a deoxyribonucleic acid specimen for diagnostic, evidentiary or confirmatory purposes.
(2) Retained tissue, organs, blood, other bodily fluid, gas or another specimen from an autopsy are medical waste and shall be disposed of in accordance with applicable Federal and State laws.
(e) Liability.--A coroner who, in good faith, orders or performs a medical examination or autopsy under statutory authority shall be immune from civil liability for damages for ordering or performing the examination or autopsy.
Source: official Pennsylvania text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 13919
What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 13919 cover?
Section 13919 ("Autopsy, inquest and records.") is part of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, the codified statutory law of Pennsylvania. 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 Pennsylvania § 13919?
A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 13919" (Pennsylvania). 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 Pennsylvania law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Pennsylvania official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.
How does Pennsylvania § 13919 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania.