Leichenschau

Leichenschau, also known as a post-mortem examination or autopsy in a broader sense, is a medical procedure performed to determine the cause of death. In German-speaking countries, the term specifically refers to the initial examination of a deceased person by a physician. This examination aims to establish the identity of the deceased, ascertain that death has indeed occurred, and identify any visible external injuries or signs that might suggest the cause of death or indicate suspicious circumstances.

The leichenschau is typically carried out by a doctor, often a general practitioner or a pathologist, at the location where the death occurred, such as a hospital, nursing home, or private residence. The primary goals are to confirm death and provide a preliminary cause of death for official records. If the death appears to be due to natural causes and there are no suspicious elements, the physician can declare the death officially and issue a death certificate.

However, if the leichenschau reveals indications of unnatural causes, such as trauma, poisoning, or if the death occurred suddenly and unexpectedly, the physician is obligated to report it to the authorities. In such cases, a more extensive autopsy may be ordered by the public prosecutor's office or a court to establish the precise cause and manner of death, especially if a criminal investigation is initiated. The leichenschau is therefore a crucial step in both medical practice and the legal system, ensuring accurate documentation and facilitating justice when necessary.