Requests for public records
Most records obtained or created for the purpose of medico-legal death investigation are confidential and not available for general release as a public record. Cause and manner of death are public information and can be released over the phone at 564.397.8405 or via email. Media can request cause and manner of death information by calling 564.397.7307 or via email.
To request other public records involving the Medical Examiner, visit the Public Records Portal on the Clark County website. *Please note that this is for requesting records in Clark County, Washington only.*
Requests for confidential autopsy records - Family
Reports and records of autopsies are confidential by state law (RCW 68.50.105,), with limited exceptions for release of information. If the death occurred in Clark County, you can request a copy of a confidential autopsy report. You may download the request form or contact our office and a form will be mailed to you. Please return the signed and notarized original to the Office of the Clark County Medical Examiner, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000.
Requests for confidential autopsy records - Insurance
Reports and records of autopsies are confidential by state law (RCW 68.50.105,), with limited exceptions for release of information. If the death occurred in Clark County, you can request a copy of a confidential autopsy report to be sent directly to the decedent's insurer. You may download the insurance release form or contact our office and a form will be mailed to you. Please return the signed and notarized original to the Office of the Clark County Medical Examiner, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000.
Requests for confidential autopsy records - Legal representative
Reports and records of autopsies are confidential by state law (RCW 68.50.105,), with limited exceptions for release of information. If the death occurred in Clark County, you can request a copy of a confidential autopsy report to be sent directly to the law firm or lawyer retained. You may download the release form or contact our office and a form will be mailed to you. Please return the signed and notarized original to the Office of the Clark County Medical Examiner, PO Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000.
Office Location
Walk-In office hours are 9AM - 4PM Monday through Friday.
Report Completion
Please note that only copies of complete and final reports are released. Laboratory results necessary to complete the autopsy report can take up to 6 months.