When you lose a loved one, you naturally want to know all the information about their cause of death. If the local coroner does not provide an autopsy, or if you have questions about the autopsy provided, you can request an independent assessment, gaining clarity, closure, and peace of mind. At Saguaro Forensic Consulting, we offer private autopsy services to families in Indiana and Illinois to support families on their journey toward answers and resolution.

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Why Obtain a Private Autopsy?

While the death of a family member is always difficult, a lack of clarity about their final hours can be especially traumatic. Different municipalities have varied criteria for when and why to perform a coroner’s autopsy, which means you may not get an official report about your loved one’s cause of death.

A private autopsy can provide you with total clarity about how your loved one passed, which can help you and your family with:

Do you need a private autopsy?

Saguaro Forensic Consulting has provided all necessary forms for download on our website. You can streamline your autopsy request by downloading and completing these forms in advance.


Who Can Request a Private Autopsy?

Different municipalities in Indiana and Illinois have specific rules about who may and may not request a private autopsy.

The motivations behind requesting a private autopsy revolve around a collective pursuit of knowledge, closure, and a thorough understanding of the circumstances surrounding a loved one’s passing.


What To Expect From Our Private Autopsy Services

Saguaro Forensic Consulting has a proven track record of compassionate, client-centered, and professional autopsy services. We provide a streamlined process that is convenient and expedient, typically delivering on-site work within the first 48 hours of contact and generating a comprehensive autopsy report within 30 days’ time.

Our Process

  1. If you are the next of kin or a legal representative, our doctor-on-duty is available for you to call anytime to initiate a private autopsy request. During the call, we will collect essential preliminary information and coordinate the logistical aspects of the autopsy process.
  2. Within a couple of days, our team will come to your preferred location, often a funeral home or another professional facility, to conduct the autopsy. Concurrently, we’ll request all pertinent medical records to ensure a thorough examination.
  3. Following the autopsy, the team doctor will reach out promptly to provide an initial unbiased account of your loved one’s passing. Within 30 days, you can expect a detailed report encompassing any relevant lab work or toxicology results to be sent to you. Our streamlined process aims to offer clarity and support during this challenging time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Certainly, the possibility of an open-casket funeral after an autopsy depends on various factors. Generally, a skilled, board-certified forensic pathologist like Dr. LaTanja M. Watkins and her team aim to perform autopsies in a manner that minimally affects the body’s appearance. This approach prioritizes respect for the deceased and their grieving family.

No, clients are not present during a private autopsy. The procedure is conducted by a forensic pathologist, such as Dr. LaTanja M. Watkins, in a professional and controlled environment, such as a hospital or a dedicated facility. A full report is provided to the client afterward.

Generally, the responsibility of signing the death certificate lies with the medical professional who provided care during your loved one’s passing, or alternatively, with the local coroner or medical examiner.


Request Our Private Autopsy Assistance

Following the death of a loved one, a private autopsy can ensure closure and clarity. At Saguaro Forensic Consulting, we are pleased to provide a kind, compassionate, and unbiased approach to private autopsy services. We proudly serve clients in Indiana and Illinois. To request a private autopsy, contact (317) 709-0535 today.