In families where there are
conflicting views regarding final arrangements, your funeral director
introduces the family to two stages of planning. First, materials
are provided to the decedent-to-be so he or she can be knowledgeable
in discussions with family members. Secondly, if the conflict cannot
be resolved and further discussions are considered futile, the person
for whom arrangements are being made is advised to proceed with
their wishes under the careful guidance of their funeral director.
When conflicts continue or arise after death has occurred and there
are no documents left by the decedent which meet state requirements,
courts are the last resort.
Each state establishes the parties who can authorize a cremation.
The area where conflict may arise is among children and other
relatives. Clear and firm documentation of a decedent’s
wishes for final arrangements is the best way to avoid family
conflicts.
The federal Trade Commission (FTC) has enacted a Funeral Practices
Trade Regulation Rule (Rule) which requires funeral providers
to disclose general itemized price information about services
and merchandise provided. The Rule specifically requires a funeral
provider to indicate it prices for Direct Cremation Services where
the purchaser provides the cremation container; or where the purchaser
selects a casket from the funeral provider. You may request this
information at any time from a funeral provider and it must be
given to you. However, if it is not offered at the time your are
engaging the services of a funeral provider, it could be a violation
of the Rule.
Laws vary from state to state. You may obtain information pertaining
specifically to your state by contacting the Attorney General.
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