The loss of a loved one is a devastating experience with life-long impact. In the days and weeks following the death of someone you care about, while your mental and emotional state is in great turmoil, there are numerous tasks to attend to.
During this period, more than ever, we rely on the competence and compassion of mortuary professionals to perform their duties with great attention to detail. But when a funeral home fails to meet this standard, this failure to perform properly can lead to unacceptable and severely damaging results.
Mortuary Negligence
Legal disputes are the last thing on your mind when you are making the arrangements to fulfill your loved one’s final wishes. These responsibilities may include addressing preparation of the body, funeral services, cremation or laying your loved one to rest, and payments for these services.
Unfortunately, for many, this overwhelming life event is made even more unbearable by the carelessness, inattention, or neglect of funeral homes, mortuaries, or cemetery staff. Some common examples of these negligent acts are as follows:
- Botched funeral services
- Burial in the wrong plot
- Performing embalming services without consent
- Substandard embalming
- Coffin bait and switch cons
- Harvesting of body parts without permission
- Performance of services by unlicensed or improperly licensed funeral services providers
- Fraudulent charges
The Path to Judicial Compensation
At first blush, it may seem distasteful to pursue litigation for a funeral or burial-related issue. But it’s important to understand that when your rights and those of the decedent have been violated, it is not okay. The law imposes rules and regulations to govern this unavoidable event. This is essential for the protection of people who have been taken advantage of in their weakest moments.
State and federal legislation protects the dignity of you and your loved ones during this trying time. Consumer fraud law also applies in many cases. Though you are most assuredly dealing with great emotional trauma right now, don’t allow a negligent professional in the funeral industry to continue harming others unchecked.
Document the issue as soon as possible. Make note of any problems, discrepancies, errors, and statements made by the funeral home director and other staff. Then consult legal counsel right away to obtain the guidance you need to build a strong case against the parties that have done you and your loved ones harm.
If you have been victimized by a mortuary or funeral home, don’t hesitate to contact our skilled and experienced mortuary litigation firm to assert your rights and pursue just compensation for what you have suffered. We provide compassionate and thorough legal services in this sensitive area to help you overcome this challenging life event.
