Georgia State Board of Funeral Service Practice Exam

Who is authorized to receive cremated remains from a crematory?

1. A funeral establishment or a legally authorized person

2. Any family member present at the cremation

3. The local health department representative

4. A designated funeral director only

The correct answer is: A funeral establishment or a legally authorized person

The authorization to receive cremated remains from a crematory is primarily granted to a funeral establishment or a legally authorized person. This reflects the legal and ethical protocols in the funeral service industry, where the transfer of cremated remains is a significant responsibility. The funeral establishment acts as an intermediary, ensuring that the remains are handled respectfully and in accordance with the wishes of the deceased's family. In many jurisdictions, a legally authorized person may include close family members, such as a spouse, child, or designated individual who has been empowered legally (for example, through a power of attorney or other legal documentation) to make arrangements concerning the disposition of the remains. This process is designed to ensure that the rights of the deceased and the wishes of the family are honored and that there is a clear chain of custody. Receiving cremated remains by just any family member present at the cremation, or having only a designated funeral director responsible for this task, does not align with the regulatory requirements that govern the funeral service industry. It is crucial to have clear guidelines in place to protect the interests of the deceased and their family, ensuring that only authorized individuals are permitted to receive remains.