A new Missouri law gives you more control over what is done with your body after your death. Do you want to be buried, cremated, body donated to science? The authority to make this decision is known in legalese as “right of sepulcher.”
A DPA, or agent, is someone you name in a legal document to make medical decisions for you if can’t speak for yourself. Under this new state law, the DPA has one additional power: right of sepulcher.
In the past, next-of-kin had the final say on this issue. Previously, if you chose cremation, your family could overrule you AND your DPA and choose something else. But now your DPA will have the final say – so be sure to specify your final wishes to your DPA.
Continue reading about End of Life Choices for Missouri Residents.