The coroner may contract with any competent physician or other expert to assist in the conduct of an investigation or autopsy.  The physician or other expert, upon the certificate of the coroner, shall be paid by the parish or municipality such compensation for his services as shall be mutually agreed upon by the coroner and governing authority of the parish or municipality responsible for the expenses of the investigation or autopsy.  However, such compensation, including any expenses, tests, costs, or fees, shall not exceed the sum of five hundred dollars, unless otherwise mutually agreed upon by the coroner and the chief executive officer or chief fiscal officer of the parish or municipality.

Acts 1989, No. 434, §1; Redesignated from La. Rev. Stat. 33:1560 pursuant to Acts 2011, No. 248, §3.