Forensic Medicine

Forensic medicine (oikeuslääketiede) is a medical specialty that serves the justice system and authorities by investigating causes of death, injuries, and other medical questions in a legal context. In Finland, forensic medicine services are organized by the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL).

Duties of a Forensic Pathologist

The primary duty of a forensic pathologist is cause-of-death investigation and performing autopsies. The forensic pathologist determines the cause of death, the circumstances of death, and the manner of death (natural, accident, homicide, suicide, or undetermined). The expert opinions are legally significant and are used in preliminary investigations, court proceedings, and insurance matters.

Organization in Finland

THL's forensic medicine unit is responsible for forensic medicine services throughout the country. There are facilities in four locations: Helsinki, Turku, Tampere, and Oulu. Approximately 5,000–6,000 forensic autopsies are performed annually. The police make the decision to initiate a forensic investigation based on the Act on the Investigation of Cause of Death.

Significance for the Family

A forensic investigation may delay the issuance of the burial permit, but the investigation is free of charge for the family. The death certificate is issued upon completion of the investigation. The family has the right to receive information about the investigation results. The investigation provides certainty about the cause of death, which may help the grief work process.