Time of Death Scenario

The time when the decedent's vital functions actually ceased.

• Physiological Time of Death

• Estimated Time of Death

• Legal Time of Death

The time the medical examiner estimates that the death occurred.

• Physiological Time of Death

• Estimated Time of Death

• Legal Time of Death

The time of death recorded on the death certificate; based on when the body was found or physically pronounced dead.

• Physiological Time of Death

• Estimated Time of Death

• Legal Time of Death

Is the change in the body temperature after death.

• Algor Mortis

• Rigor Mortis

• Liver Mortis

Is the stiffening of joints and muscles after death.

• Algor Mortis

• Rigor Mortis

• Liver Mortis

Is the pooling of the blood following death that causes a purplish red discoloration of the skin; also referred to as lividity.

• Algor Mortis

• Rigor Mortis

• Liver Mortis

Provides clues on how long the person has been dead or the egg larva of grown bugs provides timestamps.

• Liver Mortis

• Clouding

• Insect Activity

• Temperature Change

Blood settles or collects on parts of the body facing the ground.

• Insect Activity

• Liver Mortis

• Decomposition

• Clouding

The body turns greenish in color and swells or bloats as bacteria breaks down and releases gas.

• Clouding

• Temperature Change

• Insect Activity

• Decomposition

The muscles contract and stiffen and happen 2-4 hours after death and continues.

• Temperature Change

• Liver Mortis

• Rigor Mortis

• Insect Activity