How-to Guides
Submit a Lab Request
How to request forensic analysis on evidence
How to Submit a Lab Request
This guide shows you how to submit evidence for forensic laboratory analysis in IronCase.
Prerequisites
Before submitting a lab request:
- Evidence must be logged in IronCase
- Chain of custody must be documented
- You need appropriate permissions for the case
Accessing Lab Requests
- Open the case containing the evidence
- Go to the Evidence tab
- Select the evidence item
- Click Request Lab Analysis
Or access all requests from Lab Requests in the navigation.
Available Analysis Types
| Service | Purpose | Typical Turnaround |
|---|---|---|
| AFIS | Fingerprint identification via Automated Fingerprint Identification System | 1-3 days |
| DNA | Biological sample analysis and CODIS comparison | 2-4 weeks |
| Toxicology | Drug and poison testing of blood, urine, or tissue | 1-2 weeks |
| Ballistics | Firearm and ammunition comparison | 1-2 weeks |
| Digital Forensics | Device extraction and analysis | 1-4 weeks |
| Trace Evidence | Fibers, hair, paint, glass analysis | 2-4 weeks |
| Latent Prints | Development and enhancement of prints | 3-7 days |
| Blood Spatter | Pattern analysis for scene reconstruction | 1-2 weeks |
| Questioned Documents | Handwriting, alterations, authenticity | 2-4 weeks |
| Serology | Body fluid identification | 1-2 weeks |
Turnaround times vary by lab capacity and case priority. Rush requests may be available for critical cases.
Submitting a Request
Step 1: Select Evidence
- Navigate to the evidence item
- Verify chain of custody is complete
- Click Request Lab Analysis
Step 2: Choose Analysis Type
- Select the appropriate service type
- If multiple analyses are needed, create separate requests
- Each request tracks independently
Step 3: Set Priority
| Priority | Use When | Expected Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Rush | Time-sensitive investigation, suspect in custody | Expedited processing |
| Standard | Normal investigation timeline | Regular queue |
| Low | Cold case review, non-urgent | Processed as capacity allows |
Rush requests should be used sparingly. Overuse reduces their effectiveness for truly urgent cases.
Step 4: Provide Details
Enter specific instructions for the lab:
- What questions need answering
- Comparison samples if applicable
- Any handling precautions
- Contact information for questions
Step 5: Submit
- Review the request details
- Click Submit Request
- Request enters
submittedstatus
Request Statuses
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Draft | Not yet submitted |
| Submitted | Sent to lab, awaiting receipt |
| Received | Lab confirmed receipt |
| In Progress | Analysis underway |
| Pending Review | Results ready for lab review |
| Complete | Results available |
| Cancelled | Request withdrawn |
Tracking Requests
Monitor your lab requests:
- Go to Lab Requests in the navigation
- Filter by status, case, or date
- Click any request to view details
- Receive notifications when status changes
Receiving Results
When analysis is complete:
- You receive a notification
- Open the lab request
- View the report summary
- Download the full report PDF
- Results link automatically to the evidence item
Handling Issues
Request Rejected
If the lab rejects a request:
- Review the rejection reason
- Address the issue (usually evidence condition or documentation)
- Resubmit with corrections
Additional Analysis Needed
If results indicate further testing:
- Create a new request from the same evidence
- Reference the original request number
- Note it's a follow-up analysis
Best Practices
- Submit promptly — Some evidence degrades over time
- Be specific — Clear instructions get better results
- Track deadlines — Know when results are expected
- Review thoroughly — Lab reports may contain actionable findings
- Document everything — Note how results affect the investigation