The death scene investigation is an important part of the autopsy. In Costa Rica this indications are regulated by the law. But not always a forensic pathologist is available at the death scene. There are 5893 autopsy protocoles done in the Forensic Pathology Section of the Medico-Legal Department of the OIJ, between 1991-1993, to justify the importance of a forensic pathologist at the death scene, and the recomendations about it.

death scene; medical and legal investigation; forensic pathologist; cause and manner of death