Who has the priority for authorizing burial or cremation?

The priority for authorizing burial or cremation typically lies with a person who possesses a legal document establishing their authority, such as a health care proxy, power of attorney, or similar legal instrument. This documentation ensures that the individual has the legal right to make such important decisions regarding the deceased's remains according to the law and the wishes of the deceased, if known.

In situations where the deceased has not made their intentions clear, the laws governing disposition of remains usually prioritize individuals who are legally recognized as next of kin or those holding legal authority. This structured approach is designed to prevent disputes and ensure that the wishes of the deceased (or their legal arrangements) are honored properly.

Other options, while they may represent individuals who might be involved in the decision-making process, lack the legal backing needed to provide authoritative consent for burial or cremation. Therefore, without the necessary legal documentation, a friend of the family, a neighbor, or the local church would not have the same standing in terms of authority to authorize these actions.