DNA Retrieval from the Deceased

All too often, we hear about cases where peopledetermine biological relatedness in cases where
claim to be heir to a recently deceased person'speople claimed to have been related to deceased
assets. Today, DNA testing is heavily relied upon topersons. So, why not use DNA technology, which can
resolve questions of relatedness in these cases.quickly and accurately resolve these issues? It is likely
However, many times the decedent has alreadythat permission for DNA retrieval upon death will
undergone burial once a DNA test is decided to bebecome a standard feature in wills and estate
necessary. So, then bodies are sometimes exhumed,planning arrangements.
which can expend a lot of time and monetary effort,The DNA Identity Testing Center of Bio-Synthesis,
and certainly cause emotional distress to theInc. is an active member of the AABB Relationship
decedent's family. Had a DNA sample already beenTesting Accreditation Program and actively
taken from the decedent, a DNA test could beparticipates in proficiency testing by the College of
performed quickly and efficiently.American Pathologists. With nearly 15 years
Some argue that DNA retrieval services are unethical.experience in the DNA testing field, law enforcement,
Had the person wanted to have their DNA profilelegal representatives and individuals alike trust BSI
made, they would have done so in their living years.with their private and legal DNA testing issues,
While this may be true in some cases, it is difficult toworldwide. Visit for a full description of all testing
argue that DNA retrieval from a decedent is notservices.
logical. In the past, other methods were used to