A forensic pathologist is a medical doctor who specializes in determining the cause of death in cases involving suspicious circumstances. They perform autopsies, which are thorough examinations of deceased individuals, to gather evidence and understand how someone died. Their findings can be crucial in criminal investigations, helping law enforcement solve cases and providing important information for legal proceedings. In addition to conducting autopsies, forensic pathologists often work closely with other professionals, such as law enforcement and crime scene investigators. They may also testify in court as expert witnesses, explaining their findings to judges and juries, which can significantly impact the outcome of a trial.