Toxicology

The Toxicology Laboratory at the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner Department is a state-of-the-art forensic facility providing comprehensive analytical testing as a critical component of medicolegal death investigations. The laboratory is accredited to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 for Forensic Testing by the American National Standards Institute National Accreditation Board (ANAB), in accordance with ANAB Accreditation Requirements (AR) 3125 and the requirements of the American Board of Forensic Toxicology View Accreditation Certificate.

The primary mission of the laboratory is to support Medical Examiners in determining cause and manner of death through the identification and quantitation of drugs, alcohol, and other toxic substances in biological specimens. Using advanced instrumentation and scientifically validated methodologies, it provides accurate, defensible results along with expert interpretation and consultation.

In accordance with its accreditation, the laboratory operates under a comprehensive quality management system to ensure that all results are scientifically sound, reproducible, and legally defensible.

In addition to casework, the laboratory plays an important role in public health and public safety. Through collaboration with local, state, and federal partners, it contributes to the identification of emerging drug trends, supports drug surveillance initiatives, and continuously expands its scope of testing to address evolving challenges, including novel psychoactive substances.

Staffed by highly trained forensic toxicologists, the laboratory is committed to excellence in scientific practice, continuous professional development, and the advancement of forensic toxicology, while also serving as a resource for education and training.

Since its establishment in 1956, the laboratory has evolved into a nationally recognized leader in forensic toxicology, dedicated to supporting death investigations and the community it serves.

Leadership & Contact Information

Diane M. Moore, Ph.D., F-ABFT, Laboratory Director
George W. Hime, M.S., Assistant Laboratory Director

Miami-Dade Medical Examiner Department
Phone: (305) 545-2400
Email: [email protected]