Who is entitled to possess the cremated human remains after cremation?

The individual entitled to possess the cremated human remains after cremation is typically the person authorized to order the cremation. This is crucial because this person has taken the necessary legal steps and responsibilities to ensure that the cremation process is carried out in accordance with the deceased's wishes and applicable laws.

In many scenarios, this authorized person is often designated through a legal document or by being the next of kin, but the key factor is that they have the legal authority to make decisions regarding the cremation. This authority generally includes the right to decide what happens to the remains afterward, whether that involves taking custody, arranging for the remains to be kept in an urn, or planning for another memorial arrangement.

Understanding this designation is important as it delineates who holds that responsibility and rights over the remains, which helps prevent conflicts or legal issues surrounding the burial or disposition of the remains after cremation.