**Core Concept**
The postmortem examination, also known as autopsy, is a crucial step in determining the cause of death. After the postmortem examination, the body is required to be handled in a specific manner to facilitate further investigation, legal proceedings, and respect for the deceased.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The body is handed over to the legal authorities, specifically the police or the local health department, for further investigation and documentation. This is a mandatory step to ensure that the death is properly investigated, and any necessary legal actions are taken. The body may be retained for a period of time to facilitate further examination, toxicology reports, or other investigations.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because the body is not handed over to the hospital administration after the postmortem examination. The hospital's role is complete once the examination is conducted.

**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the body is not usually handed over to the family or relatives after the postmortem examination. While the family may be allowed to view the body or participate in the funeral arrangements, the body is typically handled by the legal authorities.

**Option C:** This option is incorrect because the body is not handed over to the funeral home or mortuary for immediate burial or cremation after the postmortem examination. The funeral home may be involved in preparing the body for burial or cremation, but this is not the next step after the postmortem examination.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In many jurisdictions, the body must be handled in a manner that respects the deceased and their family, while also facilitating a thorough investigation into the cause of death. This may involve cooperation between the legal authorities, the hospital, and the funeral home.

**Correct Answer: D.**