Post-Mortem & Forensic DNA Services
Post-Mortem & Forensic DNA Services support families, attorneys, and investigators when crucial questions remain after a death. These are some of the most sensitive cases we handle, and we respond with methodical care, clear communication, and respect for both the deceased and those left behind.
Our work begins with secure forensic DNA sample collection, whether from a medical examiner, funeral home, or stored biological material. We document each step, from receiving the sample through packaging and transfer to the accredited laboratory, to preserve chain of custody when legal proceedings are involved.
For families seeking clarity around inheritance, birth certificates, or long-standing questions, we provide post-mortem paternity testing and post-mortem maternity testing, as well as broader post-mortem parentage testing. These analyses compare DNA from the deceased with that of living relatives to determine the likelihood of a biological parent-child relationship. When identity itself is uncertain, deceased individual DNA identification uses advanced profiling to assist with naming unknown remains or confirming that a body matches a presumed person.
In legal or investigative contexts, forensic post-mortem DNA analysis supports law enforcement or civil litigation by examining biological evidence linked to a deceased individual. We explain the technical limitations, the strength of matches, and the types of questions DNA can realistically answer.
Throughout every phase, we coordinate closely with families, legal representatives, and facilities caring for the deceased. Our nurse-led background and 15+ years in DNA collection guide how we speak about these cases-with honesty, precision, and a steady focus on giving you reliable information at a time when uncertainty is especially painful.
Our work begins with secure forensic DNA sample collection, whether from a medical examiner, funeral home, or stored biological material. We document each step, from receiving the sample through packaging and transfer to the accredited laboratory, to preserve chain of custody when legal proceedings are involved.
For families seeking clarity around inheritance, birth certificates, or long-standing questions, we provide post-mortem paternity testing and post-mortem maternity testing, as well as broader post-mortem parentage testing. These analyses compare DNA from the deceased with that of living relatives to determine the likelihood of a biological parent-child relationship. When identity itself is uncertain, deceased individual DNA identification uses advanced profiling to assist with naming unknown remains or confirming that a body matches a presumed person.
In legal or investigative contexts, forensic post-mortem DNA analysis supports law enforcement or civil litigation by examining biological evidence linked to a deceased individual. We explain the technical limitations, the strength of matches, and the types of questions DNA can realistically answer.
Throughout every phase, we coordinate closely with families, legal representatives, and facilities caring for the deceased. Our nurse-led background and 15+ years in DNA collection guide how we speak about these cases-with honesty, precision, and a steady focus on giving you reliable information at a time when uncertainty is especially painful.
Required Items & Attendance
Prepare the following for your scheduled appointment:
- Official Identification: Present a valid government photo ID for adults and the child's birth certificate.
- Group Punctuality: Ensure all testing participants are present and prepared at the designated arrival time.
- Health Preparation: Eat a light meal beforehand if needed and prepare a list of current medications.
Pre-Collection Restrictions
Strictly adhere to these rules before your testing window:
- Thirty Minutes Prior: Avoid all eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum to protect oral swabs.
- Immediately Before: Do not brush your teeth, use mouthwash, or consume greasy or fried foods.
- Site Privacy: Refrain from bringing extra, unscheduled individuals to the private sample collection location.
Clinical Health Disclosures
Inform your clinical technician of the following conditions:
- Cellular Transplants: Disclose if any participant has ever received a bone marrow transplant.
- Recent Transfusions: State whether any testing individual has undergone a recent blood transfusion procedure.
- Accuracy Warnings: These specific medical treatments introduce external DNA, impacting report reliability.
Request Confidential Support
Share your situation and contact details, and we will respond promptly with clear next steps, preparation guidance, and an option to schedule a private consultation that fits your schedule.