How does a forensic pathologist determine time of death?

A forensic pathologist determines the time of death by analyzing several factors, including the body’s temperature (algor mortis), rigor mortis (stiffening of muscles), and livor mortis (pooling of blood). They also consider the stage of decomposition and any insect activity, as certain insects arrive at specific times postmortem. Additionally, the pathologist may assess any medical history or conditions that could influence these factors. Combining these observations allows them to estimate the time of death with reasonable accuracy.