Are coroners reports public record in California?
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Are coroners reports public record in California?
The California Public Records Act (PRA), Government Code Sections 62, requires the Santa Clara County Medical Examiner-Coroner’s Office to make public records available for inspection by the public and to provide copies upon request.
Who pays for autopsy in California?
There is no charge to the family for an autopsy that is required by the State of California. The cost is absorbed through the operation of the Medical Examiner Office and funded through tax dollars. In the event of a family-requested autopsy, a fee will be charged.
Does an autopsy report include pictures?
Autopsy photos, video, or audio are not public records, but may be examined at reasonable times and under reasonable supervision. “Autopsy report” is confidential, while “report of death” is not. The latter is the face page of the report, indicating the decedent and the cause and manner of death.
Are autopsy reports free?
Most autopsy reports are provided at no charge to the next of kin and other legitimate individuals. However, some states, like Maryland and Texas, require a fee for a completed, detailed autopsy report. The fee may vary.
Do hospitals do their own autopsies?
Hospitals are not required to offer or perform autopsies. Insurers don’t pay for them. Some facilities and doctors shy away from them, fearing they may reveal malpractice. The downward trend is well-known — it’s been studied for years.
