Under Pennsylvania law, who is responsible for arranging the disposition of a deceased person's body?

Under Pennsylvania law, the responsibility for arranging the disposition of a deceased person's body primarily lies with the legal next of kin or an appointed representative. This legal framework establishes that family members or individuals designated by the deceased, such as through a will or other legal document, have the authority to make decisions regarding the final arrangements. It reflects the understanding that those closest to the deceased are best suited to honor their wishes regarding burial, cremation, or other forms of disposition.

The funeral director plays a critical role in assisting with these arrangements, but they do so at the direction of the legal next of kin or an appointed representative. While the county coroner may be involved in cases where there is a need for investigation into the cause of death, particularly in cases of unusual or suspicious circumstances, this role does not extend to managing the disposition of the body. Similarly, a local attorney may provide legal advice or draft pertinent documents, but they do not hold the responsibility for arranging the actual disposition unless they are also acting in the capacity of an appointed representative in accordance with the deceased's wishes.