When the cause seems clear-but the official systems don’t respond-families, attorneys and investigators are turning to independent forensic toxicology testing in growing numbers. With rising case back-logs in public labs, emerging synthetic substances, and the need for legally-defensible results, private labs like The Carlson Company are gaining traction across the country.
The Growing Pressure on Public Labs
State and regional forensic crime labs face intense pressure today.
Many agencies report delayed turnaround times, especially in toxicology testing. For example, one U.S. state saw toxicology result times nearly double over a year.
These delays mean that when a suspected poisoning, overdose, or unexplained death occurs, waiting for “standard” forensic results is often not an option. The need for rapid, reliable, and fully documented toxicology reports has driven a major shift toward independent testing.
Why Individuals and Legal Professionals Choose Independent Labs
Here are some of the top reasons:
1. Faster Turnaround: Public forensic labs may handle thousands of cases annually-this means wait times of weeks or months. Independent labs can provide dedicated resources and faster results.
2. Broader Substance Detection: Emerging drugs and novel psychoactive substances (NPS) are not always covered in standard panels. Leading independent labs highlight that they offer “comprehensive forensic toxicology test portfolios … well-beyond the standard drug panel.”
3. Legal/Private Case Flexibility: For private investigations, civil cases, insurance matters or family concerns, there’s often no referral needed. The client controls what is submitted, how it’s handled, and how results are used.
4. Clear Documentation & Expert Interpretation: Independent labs prepare chain-of-custody documentation, definitive reports, and often offer expert witness or case consulting-how many public systems provide that?
5. Addressing Obscure or Untested Exposure Questions: When symptoms don’t fit standard drug or alcohol profiles-think chemical exposure, poisoning, unusual compounds-independent labs fill the “what else” gap.
What Does Independent Forensic Toxicology Testing Involve?
The process is rigorous and tailored for credibility.
Here’s what the client journey typically looks like:
- Case Intake & Sample Strategy: A conference or interview to determine what substances and matrices should be tested (blood, tissue, hair, bone, cremated ashes, etc.).
- Chain-of-Custody & Sample Submission: Secure handling of samples so results are defensible in court if needed.
- Advanced Analytical Testing: Methods such as GC-MS, LC-MS, HPLC, FTIR, ICP-MS to detect and quantify drugs, toxins, metals and unknown compounds.
- Reporting & Interpretation: Clear, plain-language report, list of substances found (or ruled out), interpretation of findings, potential legal implications.
- Consulting / Expert Support: Some labs offer interpretation, consultation with toxicologists, expert testimony if required.
How The Carlson Company Supports This Demand
At The Carlson Company, we understand these pressures and have built our services accordingly:
- Fully independent forensic toxicology testing for individuals, attorneys, funeral homes, investigators and institutions.
- No referral needed-direct access to our expert toxicologists.
- Nationwide sample submission: blood, tissue, hair, cremated remains.
- Rapid turnaround options and full documentation built for legal or private use.
- Transparent communication: you speak with real experts, not call-centres.
If you suspect poisoning, chemical exposure, overdose or unexplained death, book your testing or request a consultation today.
📞 Call toll-free: +1 866 889 3410
✉️ Email us anytime: carlsonco@thecarlsoncompany.net
Addressing Common Concerns & Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I request my own toxicology testing without a doctor?
A: Yes. Independent forensic labs accept direct client submissions and provide full documentation. You do not always need a hospital referral.
Q: How long does it take to get results from an independent toxicology lab?
A: Timelines vary depending on sample type and testing complexity. Because independent labs are less constrained by back-logs than public labs, results can be delivered in days rather than weeks. That said, cases involving extensive analysis may take longer.
Q: What does a forensic toxicology test for private cases include?
A: It typically includes a broad drug/poison screen, specialized panels for metals or NPS, confirmatory testing (GC-MS/LC-MS), chain-of-custody documentation, and expert interpretation.
Q: Why should I use a private lab if the medical examiner already tested the case?
A: Public labs often test only for the most common substances and may not offer full documentation, consulting or private results. If you suspect an uncommon toxin, chemical exposure, or need documentation for legal use, an independent lab is often the better choice.
Q: What is the difference between a public crime-lab toxicology panel and an independent lab’s advanced testing?
A: Public labs prioritize high-volume processing. Independent labs focus on detailed, case-specific testing, rare substances, and will often offer specialized detection, interpretation and legal support.
Real-World Example
“After a family member died suddenly and the hospital report was inconclusive, the family submitted tissue and hair samples to our lab. Within 10 days, we identified a rare industrial solvent that had not been included in the initial panel. The report was used in an estate dispute and the family finally got clarity.”
Why This Trend Matters to You
If you’re searching for terms like:
- “independent forensic toxicology testing USA”
- “private forensic toxicology lab for legal cases”
- “difference between public crime lab and private forensic toxicology lab”
- “turnaround time private forensic toxicology test results”
You’re not alone. Many people now realise:
- Traditional labs may not deliver the speed, breadth or documentation they need.
- They need results they can act on-egally, personally or financially.
- The stakes are high (inheritance, wrongful death, liability, insurance claims).
Independent forensic toxicology offers the clarity and credibility you need-so you can stop asking “why not tested” and start taking action.
Next Step: Get the Answers You Need
Don’t wait on standard systems that may overlook or delay meaningful results. At The Carlson Company:
- Choose the test that suits your case
- Submit your sample with secure chain-of-custody
- Receive accurate, documented results
- Talk to the toxicology experts if you need guidance
Book your testing or call us now to find the truth. Time matters.
