If a decedent's agent has not instructed the final disposition of cremated remains within how many days, the crematory authority may dispose of them?

If a decedent's agent has not instructed the final disposition of cremated remains within how many days, the crematory authority may dispose of them?

• A. 30 days
• B. 45 days
• C. 60 days
• D. 90 days

Answer: (C)

The correct timeframe for the crematory authority to dispose of cremated remains is 60 days if the decedent's agent has not provided instructions for their final disposition. This period is established to ensure that the crematory authority has a clear guideline for handling unattended cremated remains while also balancing the rights and responsibilities of the decedent's agent. After this 60-day period, without specific instructions from the agent or any other designated individual, the crematory authority is permitted to proceed with the disposition of the remains. This provision aims to prevent indefinite storage of cremated remains, which can create logistical and ethical issues for the crematory establishment. It is essential to understand this timeframe is set to encourage timely action from the decedent's agent regarding the final disposition while allowing the crematory authority a defined action policy after a reasonable time has passed.

The correct timeframe for the crematory authority to dispose of cremated remains is 60 days if the decedent's agent has not provided instructions for their final disposition. This period is established to ensure that the crematory authority has a clear guideline for handling unattended cremated remains while also balancing the rights and responsibilities of the decedent's agent.

After this 60-day period, without specific instructions from the agent or any other designated individual, the crematory authority is permitted to proceed with the disposition of the remains. This provision aims to prevent indefinite storage of cremated remains, which can create logistical and ethical issues for the crematory establishment. It is essential to understand this timeframe is set to encourage timely action from the decedent's agent regarding the final disposition while allowing the crematory authority a defined action policy after a reasonable time has passed.