Decedent Affairs

All TDCJ deaths are reported to the TDCJ Warden and Chaplain at ext. 26191 or TDCJ communications ext. 26108. Complete section 2 of the Form 5012. The TDCJ Chaplain is responsible for contacting the next-of-kin regarding autopsy and funeral home disposition.

If the pronouncing physician would like to speak with the family about autopsy, then he/she should contact the Chaplain’s office to obtain contact information. The physician should discuss autopsy procedures, restrictions etc. per section 4 on the Form 5012 and obtain witnessed telephone consent.

Physicians are responsible for completing Section 2 of Form 5012 and the Physician part of Section 6 of Form 5012. For additional information, see the section on "Physician Responsibilities".
Nursing Services staff is responsible for completing the Nursing part of Section 6 of Form 5012. For additional information, see the section on "Nursing Responsibilities".