January 2026 | American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators
(ABMDI) Certification Exam Prep | COMPLETE Practice Questions with
Verified Answers | Updated 2025–2026 Edition | High-Yield Study Guide
for Medicolegal Death Investigator Certification
, Question 1:
In the context of death investigation, what is the primary purpose of a forensic
autopsy?
A) To confirm the identity of the deceased
B) To determine the cause and manner of death
C) To collect evidence for prosecution
D) To assess the health care provided prior to death
Correct Option: B
Rationale: The primary purpose of a forensic autopsy is to determine both the cause of
death (the medical reason) and the manner of death (whether it was natural, accidental,
suicidal, or homicidal). This essential information aids in legal investigations and
provides closure to families.
Question 2:
Which of the following best describes the role of a forensic pathologist during a
death investigation?
A) To conduct the investigation at the crime scene
B) To interpret toxicology reports
C) To provide courtroom testimony regarding their findings
D) All of the above
Correct Option: D
Rationale: A forensic pathologist plays multiple roles in death investigations. They
conduct autopsies, interpret toxicological analysis, and often serve as expert witnesses
in court to explain their findings and assist in legal proceedings.
Question 3:
When collecting evidence from a crime scene, what is the most critical first step?
A) Taking photographs of the scene
B) Ensuring the scene is secure and safe
C) Interviewing witnesses present at the scene
D) Documenting the chain of custody
Correct Option: B
Rationale: The most critical first step in collecting evidence from a crime scene is to
ensure that the scene is secure and safe. This prevents contamination or loss of
evidence and protects the integrity of the investigation.
(ABMDI) Certification Exam Prep | COMPLETE Practice Questions with
Verified Answers | Updated 2025–2026 Edition | High-Yield Study Guide
for Medicolegal Death Investigator Certification
, Question 1:
In the context of death investigation, what is the primary purpose of a forensic
autopsy?
A) To confirm the identity of the deceased
B) To determine the cause and manner of death
C) To collect evidence for prosecution
D) To assess the health care provided prior to death
Correct Option: B
Rationale: The primary purpose of a forensic autopsy is to determine both the cause of
death (the medical reason) and the manner of death (whether it was natural, accidental,
suicidal, or homicidal). This essential information aids in legal investigations and
provides closure to families.
Question 2:
Which of the following best describes the role of a forensic pathologist during a
death investigation?
A) To conduct the investigation at the crime scene
B) To interpret toxicology reports
C) To provide courtroom testimony regarding their findings
D) All of the above
Correct Option: D
Rationale: A forensic pathologist plays multiple roles in death investigations. They
conduct autopsies, interpret toxicological analysis, and often serve as expert witnesses
in court to explain their findings and assist in legal proceedings.
Question 3:
When collecting evidence from a crime scene, what is the most critical first step?
A) Taking photographs of the scene
B) Ensuring the scene is secure and safe
C) Interviewing witnesses present at the scene
D) Documenting the chain of custody
Correct Option: B
Rationale: The most critical first step in collecting evidence from a crime scene is to
ensure that the scene is secure and safe. This prevents contamination or loss of
evidence and protects the integrity of the investigation.
