‘Worm Food or Crispy Critter’ Revisited

One of my first posts on here, a few years ago, discussed the issue of legal responsibility and authority for disposition of one’s remains. My conclusion was that the rules and governing law here in Hawaii were less than crystal clear, but that some general principles from other states’ laws, and general common law, might be applicable.

Well, Hawaii has recently enacted new legislation in this area (apparently becoming the 49th state to do so), so now we (and the courts and funeral homes) have clear legal guidance for dealing with potential disputes in this important and emotionally-charged realm. The statute lays out who has the legal priority to make the necessary decisions regarding disposition of a deceased individual’s remains, and – more importantly – also provides a legislatively-sanctioned form that YOU can use to both name an individual of your choice to make such decisions (in lieu of the default priority list, which might give the power to someone you would not elect) and to indicate any specific wishes you may have regarding disposition.

We have the form available and will be happy to help you to complete it. If you are already a client of ours, we will help you make this important addition to your existing estate plan for a nominal charge. (If you are enrolled in our Maintenance Program, the service is FREE. Yet another reason why the Maintenance Program is the best deal in town.)  If you are not already a client, give us a call and we’ll be happy to help you with all of your estate planning needs.