Legal Rights To Ashes

Summary

In Michigan, the next of kin usually has the right to control the disposition of a deceased persons remains. As a parent, you are considered next of kin. If theres a disagreement, it may need to be resolved in probate court. Consulting a local attorney is advisable for specific guidance.

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My son committed suicide and was cremated. Now my other son is demanding his ashes. I live in Michigan. Does he have any legal rights to those ashes?
I'm sorry for your loss, ****. In Michigan, the deceased's next of kin usually has the right to the ashes. If there's no will stating otherwise, your living son would fall under this category. However, it's best to consult a lawyer for advice on this matter.
He was 36 years old with no will. And was not married. Next of kin would be mother or ex-husband father?? His father wanted him cremated and I agreed only if I took the ashes.
I'm sorry for your loss, ****. In Michigan, without a will:
- The deceased's next of kin usually has the right to control the disposition of the remains.
- As a parent, you're considered next of kin.
- If there's a disagreement between next of kin, it may need to be resolved in court.
It's best to consult with a local attorney for more specific guidance.
The only disagreement would be with my other son thinking he's entitled to the ashes. However, when we ask him why he thinks they belong to him. He won't give us an answer. He just keeps on demanding them.
It's a tough situation, ****. To resolve this, you may need to file a case in your local probate court. The judge will then decide who has the right to the ashes. I recommend consulting a lawyer for this process.
okay thanks
You're welcome, ****. If you need further guidance or have any more questions, feel free to ask. Our thoughts are with you in this difficult time.