In lightly dressed bodies, the process of disarticulation is usually evident after a period of several months. Heavier clothing will prolong decomposition. The course of decomposition lasts until only hard tissues such as teeth and bones are left. Hair may continue to adhere to the skull. After approximately one year, most bones may be strewn around and the likelihood of recovery is minimal.
Anthropological examination differs from that of the forensic pathologist.
Forensic anthropologists focus on obtaining information from hard tissues such as bones and teeth while forensic pathologists gather information fundamentally from the soft tissue. Once the remains are collected and placed in individual bags or boxes, they should be transferred from the site to the laboratory or morgue. The bones should be cleaned and laid out in anatomical position for examination. The innominate bone, which comprises the pelvis, offers the most definitive traits. The second-most important bone is the humerus or femur.