What is a key factor in determining the disposition of a case?

Autopsy results are a crucial element in determining the disposition of a case because they provide objective and scientific insights into the cause and manner of death. An autopsy can reveal vital information about health conditions, injuries, and potential external factors that may have contributed to the death. This information is essential for medical death investigators, as it aids in distinguishing between natural causes, accidents, suicides, or homicides. By establishing a clear cause of death, the findings of an autopsy can influence the legal proceedings and decisions regarding the case, thus serving as a foundational piece in the investigative process.

While witness availability, evidence collected, and family involvement are also important factors in a case, they are often secondary to the definitive conclusions that can be drawn from autopsy results, which serve as a cornerstone for understanding the circumstances surrounding the death.