When a family needs DNA testing after a death, we coordinate the process with the family, laboratory, and appropriate facility personnel so collection requirements, authorization, and next steps are clearly understood.
We coordinate the laboratory kit, specimen requirements, and collection instructions. Collection from the deceased is performed by the appropriately qualified person permitted by the facility and circumstances of the case. We coordinate the living-party collection separately, and the laboratory links the specimens under the same case.
We consult with the family or their attorney, confirm what is needed, and establish authorization. We determine the appropriate specimen type and assess timing. Nothing moves forward without confirmed authorization.
We coordinate delivery or shipment of the laboratory collection kit to the appropriate facility or collector based on the timeline and case requirements. The kit includes the laboratory's instructions and documentation for the approved specimen type.
The person authorized and qualified to perform the collection follows the laboratory's specimen instructions and completes the required collector documentation. Who performs the collection depends on facility policy, specimen type, and the circumstances of the case and may include appropriately qualified facility personnel or another qualified professional such as a licensed embalmer.
We meet with the living parties — the family members being compared — at a separate appointment. We conduct our own collection and complete our chain-of-custody documentation independently.
The deceased-party specimen is submitted to the laboratory according to the kit and case instructions. We coordinate the living-party specimen separately. Both submissions are linked under the same laboratory case so the specimens can be matched and processed together.
The laboratory processes the specimens within the same case. Results are provided to the authorized requesting party according to the laboratory's reporting process. Any communication with the funeral facility depends on authorization and the circumstances of the case.
Separate collection and submission procedures help preserve clear documentation for each specimen while allowing the laboratory to link the deceased-party and living-party samples within the same case.
The person authorized and qualified to perform the deceased-party collection follows the laboratory's specimen instructions, completes the required collector documentation, and submits the specimen according to the case instructions.
We coordinate a separate appointment for the living parties being compared, complete the required collection and case documentation, and submit the living-party specimen according to the laboratory's instructions.
When a coroner or medical examiner has been involved, a blood card or other biological specimen is often retained and may be available for DNA testing. Availability, release requirements, and any associated fees vary by agency.
We help the family understand the agency's specimen-release process and coordinate the laboratory requirements when a retained specimen may be available. Authorization requirements, release procedures, fees, and specimen handling vary by coroner or medical examiner agency.
In coroner cases your funeral facility may not be involved at all. We work directly with the family and the coroner's office.
For an active case, call directly. Timing can affect which collection options remain available, so early coordination is important. We will review the situation and help determine the appropriate next steps.