In which situation can a licensee assume control of remains?

A licensee in the funeral profession can assume control of remains only with the prior authority from the rightful person. This principle is grounded in the ethical and legal obligations that govern the handling of human remains. The rightful person is typically defined by law and may include relatives, as specified within regulations.

Obtaining appropriate authority is crucial to ensure that the actions taken by the funeral director align with the wishes of those entitled to make such decisions regarding the deceased. This respect for the rights and wishes of the deceased's family is a fundamental aspect of funeral service practices and laws.

While there may be circumstances that arise, such as remains being unclaimed or the involvement of law enforcement, these do not routinely supersede the need for prior authority from the rightful person. Instead, such scenarios would typically be handled according to specific legal processes and regulations that may involve state authorities or a designated representative.