2015 was the first year more people chose cremation than traditional burial for final disposition. In fact, the National Funeral Director’s Association predicts the national cremation rate to climb above 70% by the year 2030. Whether it’s cost considerations, flexibility, less religious constraints, or changing family preferences, there are many reasons families are choosing cremation.
More than half of the families who choose cremation decide to celebrate or commemorate their loved one in some manner. Some religious institutions require the ashes be present at the service. Other times due to the nature of the service, the family needs the ashes present (such as scattering or burying the ashes at the time of the service).
One concern we’ve experienced from families as a cremation provider is the availability of the ashes. A lot of individuals who’ve never previously arranged for a funeral aren’t aware Florida has a few laws regarding when the cremation can take place. Some families are under the misconception the cremation can be performed immediately after the death occurs. This is not the case and your local Crematory has to abide by these laws before they’re allowed to move forward. Your funeral director should communicate this to the respective family as soon as possible so memorial services can be scheduled accordingly.
- Florida law requires a mandatory 48 hour waiting period from the time of death.
- A death certificate must be signed by the deceased’s primary care or certifying physician.
- The Medical Examiner has to review the cause of death certified by the physician and approve the cremation.
- The funeral home now has approval to cremate and the Crematory can move forward.
It’s important to keep in mind, if a death happens on a Friday, the Doctor and Medical Examiner’s office is most likely closed on the weekend and major holidays. If this is the case, the death certificate will not reach them till the next business day.