A sudden or unexpected death is a shock, and the process that follows can feel confusing. This guide explains in general terms what usually happens in Orange and Osceola counties.
Call 911 immediately. If there is any chance the person is alive, follow the dispatcher’s instructions. Do not move the person or disturb the surroundings unless you are told to.
Why law enforcement and the medical examiner may be involved
Florida law (Chapter 406, Florida Statutes) gives district medical examiners jurisdiction over certain deaths. These include deaths from accidents, suicide or violence, deaths that occur suddenly when a person appeared to be in good health, deaths that were not attended by a physician, and deaths under suspicious or unusual circumstances.
This does not mean anyone has done something wrong. It is the standard legal process for establishing the cause and manner of death. Orange and Osceola counties are served by the District Nine Medical Examiner’s Office.
What may happen
- Police or deputies and emergency medical services respond to the scene.
- The medical examiner’s office decides whether to take jurisdiction. If it does, it arranges transport of your loved one to its facility.
- The medical examiner may perform an examination or autopsy to determine the cause of death. When the medical examiner requires an autopsy, family consent is not needed.
- Once the examination is complete, the medical examiner releases your loved one to the funeral home the family has chosen.
What the family can do
- Choose a funeral home. You can do this right away. The funeral home coordinates with the medical examiner’s office about release and timing, which saves the family phone calls.
- Ask the investigator for a case number and contact details; the funeral home will need them.
- Ask about personal effects. Items may be held for a period and returned later.
- Look after yourself and others. Sudden loss is traumatic. Victim advocates, chaplains and grief counselors can help. See our grief resources.
Cremation after a medical examiner case
In Florida, cremation always requires approval from the medical examiner, and it cannot take place until at least 48 hours after death unless an exception applies. The funeral home handles this request. See what is needed for cremation in Florida.
Death certificates
When the medical examiner is investigating, the cause of death may be listed as “pending” at first. Families can often get a death certificate with a pending cause to begin some estate matters, and an amended certificate later. See Florida death certificates.
This article is general information about Florida funeral practices, not legal advice. Florida law regulates the handling, transportation, cremation and disposition of human remains, and requirements can depend on the circumstances. For advice about a specific situation, speak with a licensed Florida funeral director or an attorney. Editorial policy.