Certain conditions in cases with pulmonary pathology such as thrombosis and embolism, pregnancy, asthma, drug abuse, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and occupational exposures are particularly likely to come under critical scrutiny and may form the basis of allegations of medical negligence, wrongful death or product liability. Pathologists may play an important role in the resolution of these legal claims through the proper performance, interpretation and reporting of their examinations. Pathologists can also assist in the legal process by explaining pathologic findings and their significance, correlating them with the clinical course and addressing issues of causation.