What are the primary duties of a forensic pathologist?

The primary duties of a forensic pathologist focus on investigating deaths that are sudden, suspicious, or unusual. This medical specialty involves performing autopsies to determine the cause and manner of death, which is critical in cases where foul play is suspected, or deaths occur under unexplained circumstances. By examining the body and collecting evidence, forensic pathologists play a crucial role in providing clarity on the circumstances surrounding a death, which can be vital for legal investigations and the justice system.

In contrast, creating official death certificates is typically the responsibility of physicians or medical examiners, not specifically forensic pathologists, as they primarily deal with unnatural or suspicious deaths. Embalming procedures are performed by licensed embalming professionals or funeral directors, separate from the forensic analysis of a death. Managing funeral home operations is not part of a forensic pathologist's duties, as their focus is on medical investigations rather than funeral services.