Who Gets to Plan Your Funeral Home Service?

Traditionally, it is the next of kin that makes any arrangements for funeral home services in Marietta, GA. However, sometimes people wish to designate other people besides their next of kin to be in charge of their funeral planning after they’re gone, and that’s OK.

Everyone has a right to choose their final wishes once they’re gone, and these choices include who gets to plan and make important decisions. But how do you designate other people besides the next of kin? According to state law, all instructions for last wishes must meet certain requirements in order for them to consider legal and binding. These requirements include the signature of the decedent, acknowledgment of the decedent’s signature, meaning getting the document notarized, and signature of the agent or successor agreeing to act as the decedent’s agent after death.

Whether you want to designate a close friend, an estate executor, or even one of your children, it is possible to choose who arranges your funeral service. Any modifications to a document must be in writing and also notarized to make them valid. While these requirements seem like a lot, it’s actually easier than you think to meet them as many states have specific forms for people to leave final instructions and to designate someone other than their next of kind to make final arrangements.

However, it’s important to remember that these forms do not trump or replace a Power of Attorney or a legal will, as they are only there to provide end-of-life instructions. Again, any and all written instructions, from a Power of Attorney to an end-of-life form, must be signed by both parties before the death. There are a few other important next of kin topics. Start with these tips, and follow up with an attorney for more information and guidance:

1. Non-Traditional Relationships – Nontraditional relationships, like common-law marriages, same-sex relationships, or even families with lots of children often require additional steps and paperwork. Do research if you think this applies to your situation to make sure you’re covered.
2. Do Your Own Research – Understanding how your state handles end-of-life arrangements and associated legal matters are very important. Do some research of your own to make sure you understand.
3. Consult a Lawyer – It’s always a good idea to consult an attorney before making any official plans as they can best advise you on how to proceed.
4. Make and Distribute Copies – Don’t just fill out the forms and forget about them. Make and give out copies to important people like those named in the document or caregivers.
5. Be Specific – Be specific in your end-of-life instructions. Include information such as the type of disposition you want as clearly as possible.

It’s your funeral, so it’s your choice. You have every right to designate whomever you want to take care of them for you but be sure to do it correctly to make sure your wishes are followed. Davis-Struempf Funeral Home & Crematory is here to help if you want more information on Marietta, GA funeral homes. Stop by and visit us or give us a call today.