Identify possible issues encountered when preparing a decedent for burial.

Identification should include

• restrictions on burials of those dying of a communicable disease
• complications resulting from a decedent detained in an action of replevin (holding a body for ransom)
• effect of the decedent's wishes with respect to exercising the right and duty of disposition
• a decedent's survivors dispute the right of disposition
• characteristics of decedent (e.g., size of casket, cemetery plot size). 

Process/Skill Questions: 

• What are the legal rights of the funeral home to hold cremated remains until the family pays their funeral expenses in full?
• Whose rights take precedence when death occurs, the decedents or the surviving family’s wishes?
• How might a funeral director handle family disputes regarding what type of services should be given a decedent?