What Happens After You Contact Clearview?

1. Contact Clearview

What happens:
You speak with our intake team, tell us what happened, and share the questions your family is trying to answer.

Why it matters:
You do not need to know exactly what type of autopsy or testing you need. We help you understand the next step from the beginning.

2. We Confirm the Case

What happens:
We verify authorization and jurisdiction and, when needed, confirm release with the Medical Examiner or Coroner. If they take custody of the case, they may perform their own autopsy as part of the investigation at no cost to the family.

Why it matters:
You are not left trying to figure out paperwork, rules, or who needs to be contacted. We tell you what is needed and help move the case forward.

3. We Coordinate Transportation to the Autopsy Facility

What happens:
Your case manager arranges transportation to our established autopsy facility and coordinates the timing.

Why it matters:
Your family does not have to call multiple companies or organize the logistics yourself. We handle the arrangements and keep you informed.

4. The Examination Is Completed

What happens:
The pathologist performs a detailed examination and, when appropriate, sends small tissue samples for additional laboratory review.

Why it matters:
Some important findings cannot be identified by looking at the body alone. This additional review can help uncover information that may be important to understanding what happened.

5. The Pathologist Brings the Findings Together

What happens:
The pathologist considers the examination, laboratory findings, available medical history, and other relevant information together.

Why it matters:
The goal is not simply to give you a list of findings. It is to understand how the pieces fit together and determine what they may explain about your loved one’s death.

6. Your Family Receives the Final Report

What happens:
You receive the pathologist’s written report documenting the significant findings, diagnoses, and conclusions.

Why it matters:
You leave the process with a clear medical record of what was found—something your family can use to better understand the death and, when appropriate, share with physicians, attorneys, or other professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at info@clearviewautopsy.com or call us if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Can we still have an open-casket funeral?

Yes. 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.

Why would a family request a private autopsy?

It's not always easy to know whether an autopsy is the right choice. You may have unanswered questions about your loved one's passing or simply want a better understanding of what happened. Our team is here to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and help you determine whether an autopsy may provide the answers you're looking for.

Who can authorize a private autopsy?

A private autopsy must be authorized by a legally authorized representative or next of kin. Depending on applicable state law, the general order of priority may include:

Legally designated representative
Surviving spouse or civil union partner
Adult children (18 years or older)
Parents
Adult siblings
Adult grandchildren
Grandparents
Other qualifying next of kin

If multiple family members share the same level of priority, additional authorization may be required.

Our dedicated case coordinators will help your family understand the authorization process.

Is a private autopsy the same as a medical examiner or coroner autopsy?

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!

Can a private autopsy be performed if the medical examiner or coroner is involved?

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.

How soon should an autopsy be performed?

We recommend performing the autopsy as soon as possible, ideally within 24–48 hours of death. Whenever possible, please contact us before embalming, as it may affect certain examination findings. However, an autopsy may still be possible after embalming, depending on the circumstances.

How long does the final report take?

Timelines vary depending on the circumstances of each case and any additional testing required. We aim to complete the physical autopsy and provide a preliminary report within 48 hours of case initiation, whenever possible.

The final autopsy report typically takes 4–6 weeks, as laboratory testing and other outside evaluations must be completed and reviewed before the final findings can be issued. Our team will keep you informed throughout the process.

Where is the autopsy performed?

Autopsies are performed at our contracted facilities, including hospital autopsy suites, morgues, and other appropriately equipped locations. Our team coordinates all arrangements with your family and funeral home. Your funeral home will never be required to provide its own facilities for the examination.