Washington § 68.50.101 - Autopsy, postmortem — Who may authorize.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 68.50.101 — Autopsy, postmortem — Who may authorize., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 68.50.101. Autopsy, postmortem — Who may authorize.

Autopsy or postmortem may be performed in any case where authorization has been given by a member of one of the following classes of persons in the following order of priority:
(1) The surviving spouse or state registered domestic partner;
(2) Any child of the decedent who is eighteen years of age or older;
(3) One of the parents of the decedent;
(4) Any adult brother or sister of the decedent;
(5) A person who was guardian of the decedent at the time of death;
(6) Any other person or agency authorized or under an obligation to dispose of the remains of the decedent. The chief official of any such agency shall designate one or more persons to execute authorizations pursuant to the provisions of this section.
If the person seeking authority to perform an autopsy or postmortem makes reasonable efforts to locate and secure authorization from a competent person in the first or succeeding class and finds no such person available, authorization may be given by any person in the next class, in the order of descending priority. However, no person under this section shall have the power to authorize an autopsy or postmortem if a person of higher priority under this section has refused such authorization: PROVIDED, That this section shall not affect autopsies performed pursuant to RCW 68.50.010 or 68.50.103.
[ 2007 c 156 s 22; 1987 c 331 s 57; 1977 c 79 s 1; 1953 c 188 s 11. Formerly RCW 68.08.101.]

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 68.50.101

What does Revised Code of Washington § 68.50.101 cover?

Section 68.50.101 ("Autopsy, postmortem — Who may authorize.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. 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 Washington § 68.50.101?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 68.50.101" (Washington). 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 Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 68.50.101 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington 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 Washington.