Losing a loved one is one of life’s most challenging moments. If the family opts for cremation services, it’s vital that the process is upheld with the utmost compassion. Specific legal guidelines must be followed to ensure that families receive respectful service before, during, and after the cremation process. The compassionate staff at Kailua Kona’s Cremation Services of West Hawaii informs families of the legal guidelines so that you can better understand your rights throughout the cremation process.

Each state has varying guidelines and laws on how they handle their cremation services. Since these guidelines are based on federal laws, however, they remain relatively similar.

Handling of the Deceased

Legal guidelines state that if a family opts for cremation services, the remains need to be positively identified by an authorizing agent. After the remains have been identified, they should be covered respectfully and handled in a careful manner that respects all local, state and federal laws. The same authorizing agent who identified the remains should write out specific instructions for how to handle personal possessions. This ensures the body of the deceased, along with any possessions, are treated in the most dignified manner possible.

Your Expectations

As a loved one left behind, you have the right for certain expectations to be met regarding cremation services. The first is that all interactions between the staff and family should be handled in a dignified and respectful manner, along with full disclosure. Full disclosure includes a written explanation of the cremation process, so  the family understands it, and any questions are answered. Witnessing the cremation process itself varies by local law, but you should know your right to observe, along with when it’s going to take place. After the cremation process, the remains should be released in a dignified manner, whether this is in an urn or another manner of your choosing. 

If your family chooses cremation services following the death of a loved one, it’s vital to ensure that all applicable legal guidelines are followed. Whether you’re searching for an urn to honor the deceased or have questions regarding the cremation process, the compassionate professionals at Cremation Services of West Hawaii will ease the process, guiding you forward in a loving way. Visit their website for more information, or call (808) 329-4500 to speak with a caring team member.