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Private autopsy · NAAG Forensic

Answers, with care and discretion.

When someone you love dies and you need to know why, NAAG’s board-certified forensic pathologists perform independent private autopsies, in California and for loved ones brought to us from anywhere in the world.

Call 1-800-985-5346 How to begin
If time is short

Is embalming or cremation already scheduled?

Please call us now, before it happens. Embalming and cremation can make an autopsy less complete, or impossible.

1-800-985-5346Seven days a week · consult@naagforensic.com
How can we help?Choose a path
Our promise

Performed by a physician, never delegated.

  • Board-certified forensic pathologists perform every private autopsy directly, in appropriate medical facilities.
  • Independent. Our findings answer to the evidence alone, not to a hospital, an agency or an insurer.
  • Worldwide. We examine loved ones from across the United States and overseas, with funeral-industry partners handling transport.
  • Subspecialists when needed. Neuropathology, anthropology, imaging and other studies, when your loved one’s case calls for them.
  • Explained to you. We take the time to explain what we found, and what it means, in plain language.
  • Since 2015. NAAG Forensic has provided forensic pathology services since 2015.
How it works

What happens next.

Call us

Call 1-800-985-5346 any day. We listen, explain how a private autopsy works, and discuss timing and fees.

Authorization

We confirm the legal next of kin and any release needed from the coroner, medical examiner or hospital.

Transport

Our funeral-industry partners help bring your loved one to our California facility, from anywhere in the world.

Examination & findings

A board-certified forensic pathologist performs the examination and explains the findings to you.

Questions

Questions families ask us.

What is a private autopsy?
An autopsy that a family arranges and pays for independently, rather than one ordered by a coroner or medical examiner. At NAAG it is performed directly by a board-certified forensic pathologist, never delegated.
Can NAAG examine my loved one if the coroner already performed an autopsy?
Often, yes. A second, independent examination can still answer many questions. Tell us what was done and we will explain what a second examination could add.
Can NAAG tell me about an autopsy it performed for the coroner?
Not without the coroner’s formal permission. When NAAG performs an examination for a sheriff-coroner, that case belongs to the coroner’s office, and families must request information from the coroner first.
My loved one died outside California. Can you help?
Yes. NAAG performs autopsies on loved ones from around the world. Our funeral-industry partners help transport them to our California facility.
Will an autopsy delay the funeral?
We work quickly and coordinate with your funeral home. Please call us as early as possible, especially if embalming or cremation is scheduled.
How much does a private autopsy cost?
Fees depend on the examination and any special studies needed. We explain them clearly on the first call, before anything is arranged.
Is a private autopsy confidential?
Yes. Private examinations are handled with discretion. For families whose public profile makes privacy paramount, the Apex Autopsy Service provides the highest level of confidential, concierge service.
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The private autopsy program

The same examination, whichever report you choose.

Families and next of kinVIII

Molecular autopsy & genetic testing

Answers that matter to the living.

Families, attorneys and agenciesI

Expert consultation

Five products. Three areas of practice. One standard.

Attorneys, agencies and families
Further readingAll guides →
GuideThe first 24 hours after an unexpected death: what families should know.What happens after an unexpected death, who takes charge of your loved one, what to ask the coroner, and how to keep the option of a private autopsy open.GuidePrivate autopsy: a guide for families.How a private autopsy works: when to request one, who can authorize it, why timing matters, what you receive, and how to choose a qualified forensic pathologist.GuideSecond opinions in forensic pathology: when, why and how.When a second forensic pathology opinion is warranted, its forms (records review, second autopsy, Deep Dive), what to gather and who can request one.
How to begin

We’re here when you’re ready.

Call us any day. A member of our team will explain the process gently and clearly, and answer your questions about timing and fees.

Medically reviewed by Evan W. Matshes, MD, FRCPC, D-ABP, Medical Director and Chief Forensic Pathologist · Updated

Call 1-800-985-5346 What we’ll ask
Phone1-800-985-5346
Emailconsult@naagforensic.com
LaboratoryNAAG Forensic PC
6335 Ferris Square, Suite C, San Diego, CA 92121

If embalming or cremation is scheduled soon, please call rather than email, so we can act in time.