Forensic pathology is the subspecialty of pathology that focuses on the medico-legal investigation of sudden or unexpected death. Forensic pathologists split their time at work among 1) performing autopsies, 2) acquiring data from investigating officers, and 3) testifying in court. Occasionally, they may visit scenes of crimes or accidents, but this is uncommon for most pathologists.
Varying combinations of personality characteristics are required in a good forensic pathologist:
* A talent for and the interest in science: This should include not only biology, but physics, chemistry and the social
sciences (anthropology and psychology).
* Good communication skills: Pathologists not only interact with law officers, but with judges and juries, by trying
to convince them that their findings are valid.
* Strong stomach: Pathologists routinely deal with dismembered and/or rotting bodies. From a pure visceral
standpoint, there is no job more disgusting than forensic pathology.
* Thick skin: Pathologists are periodically raked over the coals by the local media, who apparently cannot resist
the urge to armchair-quarterback pathologists' work. Pathologists also have to have some insight into the mind
of a killer.
Forensic pathologists make roughly $60,000 to $180,000 a year, depending on experience, geographical area and level of responsibility. As a o