Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. In most cases, a private autopsy can still allow for an open-casket funeral. The examination is performed respectfully, and the funeral home will prepare the body afterward.

Families may request a private autopsy when they want clearer answers about the cause of death, have concerns about the medical history, or need independent documentation for family, medical, or legal reasons.

A private autopsy is typically authorized by the legal next of kin or the person legally responsible for making decisions for the deceased.

No. A medical examiner or coroner autopsy is performed under government authority. A private autopsy is requested by the family or authorized party after the body has been released from the medical examiner or coroner, when applicable. If you have questions whether your case is a Medical-Examiner case or can be private please contact us and we can guide you!

Yes, but only after the medical examiner or coroner has completed their review and released the body. We help coordinate with the funeral home and involved parties once private authorization is appropriate.

Ideally, the autopsy should be performed as soon as possible, often within 24–48 hours. It is best to contact us before embalming, although some examinations may still be possible afterward.

Timing depends on the case and any additional testing. Typically we aim for the physical autopsy to be finished within 48hrs of case initiation. But the final report commonly takes several weeks, especially if microscopic examination, toxicology, or testing is needed.

The autopsy is performed at our appropriate contracted facilities, such as a hospital autopsy suite, morgue, funeral home facility, or other approved location. Our team coordinates the location with the family and funeral home.