Leichenbeschauer

Leichenbeschauer is a term used for a person who examines deceased individuals to determine basic information about death, such as identity, approximate time of death, and potential cause or manner of death. The role is typically connected to public health, law enforcement, or judicial authorities and can involve coordinating the initial assessment of a corpse and documenting findings for official records.

The core duties of a Leichenbeschauer include conducting the Leichenschau (the external examination of a body), noting any signs of injury, disease, or other relevant conditions, and assessing whether an autopsy is warranted. The observer may also determine or confirm the death’s timing, ensure proper handling and preservation of the body, and secure evidence for investigations. When criminal or suspicious circumstances are suspected, the Leichenbeschauer works closely with police, prosecutors, and other forensic experts to relay information and decisions about further examination.

Qualifications and training typically require a medical background. In many jurisdictions, the Leichenbeschauer is a physician—often specializing in forensic medicine or pathology—authorized by public authorities to perform postmortem examinations. The position may be defined by national or regional law, with responsibilities that may overlap with those of a forensic pathologist or court medical examiner (Gerichtsmediziner).

Terminology and practice vary across German-speaking regions. In some areas, the term Leichenbeschauer is used alongside or instead of titles such asGerichtsmediziner or legal medical examiner. Regardless of nomenclature, the role centers on the careful, legally compliant examination of corpses to support death certification and judicial processes.