Medical examiner determination of cause of death.

(1) In the case of any death or fetal death due to causes or conditions listed in s. 406.11, any death that occurred more than 12 months after the decedent was last treated by a primary or attending physician, or any death for which there is reason to believe that the death may have been due to an unlawful act or neglect, the funeral director or other person to whose attention the death may come shall refer the case to the district medical examiner of the county in which the death occurred or the body was found for investigation and determination of the cause of death.

(2) The medical examiner shall complete and sign the medical certification of cause of death of the death or fetal death certificate within 72 hours after notification, whether or not final determination of the cause of death has been established, unless an extension has been granted as provided under s. 382.008. Any amendment fees prescribed in s. 382.0255 shall be waived when a later determination of cause of death is made.

(3) The funeral director shall retain the responsibility for preparation of the death or fetal death certificate, obtaining the necessary signatures, filing with the department in a timely manner, and arranging for final disposition of the body when released by the medical examiner.