4) Can family members attend the post-mortem?
No. Family members are not allowed to attend medico-legal post-mortems for legal, ethical, and safety reasons. In certain cases, a family may request that an independent medical practitioner attend on their behalf through the appropriate legal channels.
5) What happens during a medico-legal post-mortem?
A forensic doctor performs the examination in a designated forensic facility. Depending on the case, it may include:
- an external examination (looking carefully at the body)
- an internal examination (the “autopsy” part)
- collecting samples for tests (for example toxicology for substances, or tissue samples for microscopy)
- sometimes special investigations like X-rays or other imaging
The goal is to determine the most likely cause of death and to document findings that may be important for a legal investigation. A formal report is then prepared for judicial purposes.
6) How long does it take to finalize the post-mortem report?
Timeframes differ from case to case. Some reports can be completed relatively quickly, but others take longer if extra results are needed (for example toxicology or histology) or if more information is required from the investigation. The report is finalized once the forensic doctor has all the necessary information to give a reliable opinion.
7) Is the report confidential? Who can get a copy?
Yes. The post-mortem report is a confidential legal document created for official investigation and court processes. Access is controlled by law and formal procedures.
In most cases, family members who want access are advised to direct their request to the SAPS investigating officer (or the relevant legal authority managing the case), who can guide the correct process. The forensic facility or doctor usually does not release reports directly to families without the proper authorization.
8) Can I speak to the forensic pathologist who did the post-mortem?
In many cases, yes. Families may request a meeting or discussion with the forensic doctor. What can be shared will depend on where the case is in the investigation and what the doctor is allowed to discuss. The doctor will always try to explain the medical aspects in a respectful, understandable way within those limits.
9) How do I become a forensic doctor or forensic pathologist?
If you are interested in forensic medicine, the first step is to qualify as a medical doctor. After that, you can apply for specialist training posts in forensic pathology/forensic medicine (usually through a university and health department training platform). At UFS, specialist training is linked to postgraduate study (such as an MMed program) and professional requirements. If you want to explore this path, contact the Department for guidance on training routes and opportunities.
10) Do you accept electives, internships, or research fellows?
Yes, depending on capacity and the type of placement. We may accept electives or internships for medical students and doctors, and we may consider research fellows on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the Department with details of what you are looking for (dates, level of training, and purpose of the visit).
11) Who do I contact for more information?
You can contact our department at +27 51 412 9139.