What type of identification is visual identification by family or other individuals?

Visual identification by family or other individuals is classified as presumptive identification. This type of identification relies on the opinion or belief of those who knew the deceased, rather than on definitive or scientific evidence. Family members may be able to recognize the deceased based on physical appearance, clothing, or other identifiers, but this recognition can be influenced by factors such as emotional distress or the condition of the body.

Presumptive identification is essential in the context of death investigations, especially in situations where other forms of identification (like fingerprints or DNA) may not be readily available. It must be followed by further verification to confirm the identity through more reliable means. This distinction helps to clarify the level of certainty associated with visual identification, as it is not definitive until it is supported by additional evidence.