EDUCATION
Virtual Town Hall
Critical Conversations in Forensic Pathology
Shaping the Future of Death Investigation
NAAG Forensic invites you to join two virtual town halls this season, bringing together experts and professionals to discuss pivotal changes in forensic pathology and death investigation.
The Impact of the SCOTUS Ruling on Coroner's Offices
Date: January 22, 2025
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 nn
Description: This session will explore how the recent Supreme Court ruling is reshaping operations in coroner's offices across the United States. Discover actionable insights to navigate these changes effectively.
Upcoming Practice Standards for Pediatric Forensic Pathology
Date: February 19, 2025
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 nn
Description: Delve into the soon-to-be-released Practice Standards for Pediatric Forensic Pathology and their implications for California death investigations. Learn how these standards will influence our practices and how to prepare for their implementation.
Why Attend?
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Insightful Analysis on Critical Changes: Explore the real-world impacts of recent legal and procedural developments in forensic pathology.
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Stay Ahead of Change: Understand how evolving standards and rulings will shape your work and your field.
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Interactive Q&A: Participate in live discussions to clarify concerns and share perspectives.
CME Lecture Series
Advancing Excellence in Forensic Pathology
NAAG Forensic is proud to present a bi-monthly CME Lecture Series designed to support the professional growth of forensic pathology fellows, pathology residents, and practicing forensic pathologists. These free, accredited sessions will feature esteemed speakers addressing critical topics in forensic pathology and death investigation. Through these lectures, participants will gain invaluable insights, stay updated on advancements in the field, and connect with peers and experts to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
Cardiovascular Pathology at the Adult Forensic Autopsy
Date: January 15, 2025
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Description: Cardiovascular pathology plays a crucial role in determining cause of death in forensic autopsies. This lecture delves into the identification and interpretation of common and complex cardiovascular findings, including ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, and structural abnormalities. Participants will learn to recognize subtle pathological changes, correlate clinical and postmortem findings, and understand their implications in forensic investigations.
Neck Pressure and Its Mimics
Date: January 29, 2025
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Description: Neck pressure injuries, often encountered in forensic cases, can present with findings that mimic other conditions. This session will provide an in-depth exploration of distinguishing characteristics, anatomical considerations, and forensic techniques used to differentiate between homicidal, accidental, and self-inflicted injuries. Practical case examples will guide attendees through nuanced evaluations.
Core Competencies in Forensic Anthropology
Date: February 12, 2025
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Description: This lecture provides a comprehensive overview of the key competencies required in forensic anthropology. Topics will include skeletal analysis, trauma interpretation, and advanced identification techniques. Attendees will gain practical insights into integrating anthropological expertise into forensic investigations, with a focus on casework and courtroom presentations.
Pediatric Fracture Evaluation
Date: February 26, 2025
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Description: Evaluating pediatric fractures requires expertise in distinguishing accidental from inflicted injuries. This session will focus on forensic approaches to fracture analysis, including mechanisms of injury, imaging interpretation, and the forensic significance of specific fracture patterns. Attendees will also learn about developmental considerations and common pitfalls in pediatric fracture assessments.
Introduction of PMCT into Forensic Pathology Practice
Date: March 12, 2025
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Description: Postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) is increasingly used as a complementary tool in forensic pathology. This lecture explores its applications, including visualization of skeletal injuries, internal bleeding, and gas distribution. Attendees will gain insights into PMCT’s advantages and limitations, its integration into autopsy workflows, and its potential to enhance case resolution.
Pediatric Forensic Ophthalmologic Pathology
Date: March 26, 2025
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Description: Ocular findings often provide critical evidence in pediatric forensic cases. This session will cover the identification and forensic significance of retinal hemorrhages, optic nerve damage, and other ophthalmologic pathologies. Participants will learn to correlate these findings with potential causes, such as trauma or medical conditions, and understand their implications in legal contexts..
Postmortem Changes and the Estimation of Time Since Death
Date: April 16, 2025
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Description: Estimating time since death is a cornerstone of forensic pathology. This lecture will explore postmortem changes, including rigor mortis, livor mortis, and decomposition, and their utility in determining time intervals. Attendees will also learn about advanced techniques, such as entomological evidence and biochemical markers, to refine postmortem interval estimates.
An Approach to the Molecular and Genetic Autopsy
Date: April 30, 2025
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Description: Molecular and genetic autopsies offer insights into unexplained deaths, particularly those involving sudden cardiac events and metabolic disorders. This session will discuss the role of genetic testing, interpretation of results, and integration with traditional autopsy findings. Attendees will explore the future of molecular autopsy in routine forensic practice.
Nervous System Infections
Date: May 14, 2025
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Description: Nervous system infections can be challenging to diagnose in forensic pathology. This lecture covers the pathological features, diagnostic markers, and forensic implications of conditions such as meningitis, encephalitis, and brain abscesses. Case studies will illustrate the importance of thorough investigations in determining cause and manner of death.
Common Issues in Forensic Toxicology
Date: May 28, 2025
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Description: Forensic toxicology often presents complex challenges in testing, interpretation, and reporting. This session will address common issues, including drug interactions, postmortem redistribution, and therapeutic versus toxic levels. Attendees will gain practical strategies for navigating these challenges and delivering accurate toxicological assessments.
A Review of Current Published Standards
Date: June 11, 2025
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Description: Staying informed about published standards is essential for maintaining excellence in forensic pathology. This lecture will review the latest guidelines and consensus statements, providing attendees with actionable insights to ensure compliance and enhance their practice. Real-world applications of these standards will be highlighted.
Alcoholism
Date: June 25, 2025
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Description: Alcoholism is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality worldwide. This lecture explores its forensic implications, including pathological findings, toxicological considerations, and the challenges of interpreting alcohol-related deaths. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of alcoholism’s impact on forensic investigations and public health.
Why Attend?
- Expert-Led Discussions: Gain insights from leading experts in forensic pathology and related disciplines, sharing their specialized knowledge and case-based experiences.
- Comprehensive Learning: Cover a diverse range of topics, from pediatric fractures and ophthalmologic pathology to advanced techniques like PMCT and molecular autopsy.
- Practical Applications: Learn actionable techniques and standards to enhance your practice and navigate complex forensic cases with confidence.
- Stay Updated: Keep pace with the latest advancements and guidelines in forensic pathology, ensuring your skills and knowledge remain cutting-edge.
- Earn Free CME Credits: Fulfill your continuing education requirements with engaging sessions designed to deepen your expertise at no cost.
- Flexible Virtual Format: Participate from anywhere, with sessions scheduled to accommodate busy professional lives.
- Interactive Engagement: Connect with speakers and peers during Q&A segments, fostering discussion and collaboration on key topics in the field.
Lectures & Conferences
Past Events:
Title: Forensic Anthropology Workshop: A Practical Course for Forensic Pathology Fellows
Date: TBD
Brief Description: Dive into an intensive week-long training tailored for forensic pathology fellows and senior pathology residents. This course delves deep into the interplay between forensic anthropology and pathology, aiming to provide participants with a robust understanding of the two fields. Attendees will also learn to recognize opportune moments for collaboration with forensic anthropologists, for the advancement of medicolegal investigations.
Esteemed Speakers:
Dr. Madeleine Hinkes, Chief Forensic Anthropologist, NAAG Forensic PC
Dr. Emma Lew, Forensic Pathologist, Retired Chief ME, Miami-Dade County
Others TBA
Title: Crash Course in Forensic Pathology: Elevate Your Expertise in Forensic Science
Date: October 27-29, 2023
Brief Description: Join an intensive course specifically curated for forensic pathology fellows and senior pathology residents. Within this program, we've compressed "a year's worth" of didactic lectures, covering pivotal topics in forensic pathology. Engage, collaborate, and exchange knowledge with esteemed professionals in the field.
Esteemed Speakers:
Dr. Deirdre Amaro, Forensic Pathologist and Neuropathologist, Chief ME, Boone-Callaway County
Dr. Jonathan Hayes, Forensic Pathologist, NYC Office of the Chief Medical Examiner
Dr. Emma Lew, Forensic Pathologist, Former Chief ME, Miami-Dade County
Dr. Evan Matshes, Forensic Pathologist, NAAG Forensic PC
Dr. Christopher Milroy, Forensic Pathologist, Ontario Forensic Pathology Service
Online Course Series
Past Events
Abusive Head Trauma - A Comprehensive Examination
Unlock the medical intricacies of Abusive Head Trauma (AHT) with FREE online courses for legal professionals.
Crafted to empower legal professionals, these meticulously designed sessions dissect AHT from multiple angles.
Discover modern pediatric forensic autopsies, delve into postmortem imaging, explore injury typologies, decode ocular pathology, and more.
Join Dr. Evan Matshes MD FRCPC to navigate AHT cases effectively. Unlimited seats, register now!
Principles for Prosecutors: Navigate AHT cases effectively.
- November 16, 2023, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm PST
Principles for Criminal Defense Lawyers: Understand the medical details of AHT cases.
- November 30, 2023, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm PST
Principles for Child Dependency Cases: Equip yourself to represent and protect children's interests.
- December 14, 2023, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm PST
Principles for Law Enforcement Professionals: Strengthen your AHT investigations.
- December 21, 2023, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm PST
Torture of Infants and Young Children - A Forensic Pathology Analysis
Unveil the medical intricacies of Pediatric Torture with FREE online courses tailored for legal professionals. These thoughtfully curated sessions delve deep into the world of forensic pathology in torture cases.
Explore topics like vicarious trauma, coping strategies, and PTSD. Delve into the autopsy procedures for tortured infants and children, covering blunt trauma, penetrating injuries, asphyxia, and more. Plus, get a closer look at the unique considerations in Capital and Death Penalty cases.
Join Dr. Evan Matshes MD FRCPC to navigate Pediatric Torture cases effectively. Unlimited seats, register now!
Principles for Prosecutors: Navigate Pediatric Torture cases effectively.
- January 11, 2024, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm PST
Principles for Criminal Defense Lawyers: Understand Pediatric Torture cases in detail.
- January 25, 2024, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm PST
Principles for Law Enforcement Professionals: Advocating pediatric welfare & building strong cases.
- February 8, 2024, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm PST